A dark cylindrical Akkadian seal with a winged goddess and worshippers, next to a lighter clay impression of the scene.

"A highly detailed macro photograph of an Ancient Akkadian cylindrical seal, carved from dark serpentine stone, approximately 3.5 cm tall and 2.0 cm in diameter. The seal’s rounded, tube-like cylindrical form is fully emphasized, showing the continuous narrative scene wrapping seamlessly around the curved surface. The scene is carved in vertical incisions, reflecting the authentic Old Akkadian style seen in the reference image. Central to the composition is the goddess Ishtar, front-facing, with large outstretched wings, wearing a multi-horned divine crown with clusters of weapons behind her shoulders, accompanied by her lion emblem. Surrounding her are worshippers in profile, looking upward in reverence, emphasizing her divine authority. Prominent vertical bands of finely inscribed Akkadian cuneiform, with wedge-shaped strokes, are integrated between the figures, following the curvature of the cylinder. The surface shows visible erosion and wear, with softened edges and minor chips, reflecting the seal’s age and historical use. The lighting is soft and directional, casting gentle shadows that accentuate the depth of the vertically incised carvings, the polished stone’s texture, and the worn areas. The cylinder is shown at a slight angle to highlight its 3D form, resting on a neutral archaeological background with a crisp rolled clay impression nearby, displaying the full wraparound scene in linear relief. The image captures both the historical authenticity of Akkadian art See more