Why were cylinder seals made?

Cylinder seals were invented in the Near East in the 4th millennium BCE. They were used as a form of personal identification, and were often used to seal important documents or goods. The seals were made of a variety of materials, including stone, metal, and clay, and were often engraved with intricate designs. The designs on the seals could represent anything from animals and plants to religious symbols and human figures.

Cylinder seals were used for a variety of purposes, including:

- To seal documents: Cylinder seals were used to seal important documents, such as contracts and treaties. The seal would be rolled over the wet clay of the document, leaving an impression of the design. This impression would serve as a signature, and would help to prevent the document from being tampered with.

- To seal goods: Cylinder seals were also used to seal goods, such as food and wine. The seal would be rolled over the opening of the container, and the impression would help to keep the contents safe from contamination.

- As a form of personal identification: Cylinder seals were also used as a form of personal identification. Each person had their own unique seal, which they would use to sign documents and seal goods. This helped to prevent fraud and counterfeiting.

Cylinder seals were an important part of ancient Near Eastern culture, and they played a vital role in protecting documents, goods, and personal property.