119 - Minoan Agate Seal with Squid. 2nd millennium B.C. Ellipsoid in section and rectangular in plan with incuse squid motif; pierced for use as a bead, but the end-holes not joined; supplied with a museum-quality impression. Cf. for Minoan seals representing animals, Yule, P., Early Cretan Seals: A Study of Chronology, Marburger Studien zur Vor- und Fr hgeschichte, 4, Mainz am Rhein, 1981, pls.3-8,12 (iconography). 2.53 grams, 19.1 mm (3/4 in.).

Minoan Agate Seal with Squid. 2nd millennium B.C. Ellipsoid in section and rectangular in plan with incuse squid motif; pierced for use as a bead, but the end-holes not joined; supplied with a museum-quality impression. Cf. for Minoan seals representing animals, Yule, P., Early Cretan Seals: A Study of Chronology, Marburger Studien zur Vor- und Fr hgeschichte, 4, Mainz am Rhein, 1981, pls.3-8,12 (iconography). 2.53 grams, 19.1 mm (3/4 in.). Private collection, 1980s. Acquired on the UK art market. Private collection, London, UK. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate no.13484-262458. In a relatively large number of Minoan seals, it is difficult to determine unequivocally the exact type of animal depicted. Some are hybrid figures with hooves, animal legs or are posed with a frontal face. Some figures are crudely scratched in the field; others are more carefully modelled. TimeLine Auctions follows a rigorous vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists. See our website for more information.