Yule, Paul: Early Cretan seals: a study of chronology (Marburger Studien zur Vor- und Frühgeschichte, Bd. 4) (Mainz, 1981)

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Yule, Paul
Early Cretan seals: a study of chronology (Marburger Studien zur Vor- und Frühgeschichte, Bd. 4) — Mainz, 1981

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Fig. A: Seal motif composed of a cat head joined to a petaloid loop. From Crete. B: Sealing motif composed

Introduction

Crete as an assistant, where I gained valuable experience. John Younger patiently helped organize an … The inspiration for the discussion of pictorialized and abstracted motifs came from lectures de- … My research was made possible by a fellowship from the Deutscher Akademischer Austausch-

Abbreviations

Knossos = numbers referring to seal impressions from Knossos. M. Gill, BSA 60 (1965) 58-98

Younger, Seals = J. Younger, Towards the Chronology of Aegean Glyptic in the Late Bronze … MB = Middle Bronze

Foreword

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Cretan seals. "Early Cretan" is here meant to include material from the beginning of the Bronze … My purpose is not to gather an exhaustive corpus of early Cretan glyptic but rather system- … out an engraved motif would not have been very useful as a personal signet. In the CMS office

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Bronze Age. "Class" refers to shape and material. Classes are usually broken down into subclasses … particular manner of execution of the seals and their motifs. Thus, from the point of view of … fourth of the material stems from dated contexts. Furthermore, the extant material is but a tiny … ter known periods and less so to the unknown ones. These points are mentioned here, as an a- … from the Giamalakis collection (for reasons of economy) and the seals now in press for the supplement vol- … seals (particularly from Archanes) may provide evidence for or against some of the statements in the follow-

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6 H. Frankfort, Stratified Cylinder Seals from the Diyala Region, Oriental Institute Publications 72 (Chicago

Chapter 1: State of research

did the number of Aegean seals in European collections. Generally an awareness of "Mycenaean" … in ivory, which were very different from the prisms which Evans had studied. The majority of … tent approach aside from a linear development of style moving from crude to naturalistic. … facts were a reflection of the ethnic or racial characteristics of the milieu from which the artists

seventy stylistically highly developed seal impression types from EH II and EH III contexts in Lerna … of Late Bronze Age glyptic and sought criteria to aid in the identification of seal forgeries made … The excavation of 326 seal impression types from underneath the floor of vano 25 in … noan Period partly by means of comparisons with seals from Dynasty XII in Egypt. Writers, … discovery of 423 baked sealing types in 1955 at Karahiiyuk in the Konya plain in Turkey from … from several weaknesses, not the least of which is the vagueness of the dating of the archaeologi-

from the Italian excavation of Middle Minoan Phaistos are not treated. On the other hand, … the artistic and technical quality of seals plays an important role in dating. In cases where the … approach to dating differs from that of Kenna and Evans. One might describe Boardman's … in the Late Bronze Age", does not deal with early Cretan seals, it deserves mention here as it is … far-reaching importance. Finds from EM III-MM IA Lenda, Archanes and other sites provided Pini … and that one can isolate groups of datable seals from the welter of early Cretan material.

1 Artur Milchhofer, Anfange der Kunst in Griechenland (Leipzig 1883) 7 (on the finds from Mycenae): "Das

22 For this dating, infra 67, 212-213. Evidence from later periods in art history cautions one against the un-

Chapter 2: Ceramic chronology

ly in the case of atypical, undecorated vases from provincial sites. … 8) The MM IIIB Temple Repository in Knossos is an anchoring point for the Minoan ceramic … cutoff and do not exclude the post-MM IIB material from consideration, we will be able to

ology may differ from that outlined on pages 6-7. There is considerable diversity among scholars … fied in settlement sites are more reliably dated than those from graves, which are more frequent-

context: Platon dates the finds from Cave A, "...to a limited time at the end of the Prepala-

used for burials until MM III, if not LM I (Stones Vases 194 n. 2). Supra 11 for an … "Early Middle Bronze Age"

The floral decoration known from the Kamares ware in Malia finds no really close comparisons … lished in the near future. The motif of an already published example is identical in style with

MM II-MM III (with an LM III reuse)

by D. Levi from a thin layer which contained not only these impressions but also numerous ves- … most strata are for him debris from collapsed upper stories. Levi and Walberg, however, have ar- … The remaining 304 sealing types were excavated from beneath vano 25 and are published

Late Middle Bronze … 2610 seals and seal impressions studied are from datable contexts. The sealings from Phaistos and … ples from MM II contexts are best represented. … weakness of the stratified material is that only two seals are known from pure MM IB contexts.

108). Furthermore, Hood indicates that finds from the Royal Road excavations in Knossos, "..are not alto- … comes from Walberg, who systematically determined that the pottery assigned to MM IIIA is not of homo- … 6 There has. been some difficulty in distinguishing MM IIIB ceramic from that of the succeeding LM IA per- … 9 BSA 60 (1965) 58-98. Of the Knossos impressions, many, particularly from the Temple Repository, are still

close parallel in a seal impression from Man which aids in its dating. Owing to the inscription on the seal- … (1966) 548-551. Hood also dated some of the "MM I" ceramic from Malia to MM II. Cf. Gnomon 26 … 22 BCH 96 (1976) 960-961 figs. 7, 8. For other seal impressions from Quartier Mu, Infra 213.

Chapter 3: Shape Classes

From a preliminary study of the typology of seal shapes it became clear that certain … glyptic material at one time. A chronological ordering instead of an alphabetical one has the dis- … holes, two of which are bored at an angle to meet the first one (A stringhole). Others are formed

la Amygdaloids are generally in "serpentine" and occasionally deviate from each other in … is dated to MM IB-HI.8 Further evidence for dating is provided by two'Amygdaloids from strati-

are known from the Old Palatial Period, this … range from very good to excellent in the quality of their workmanship … The cut star of HM 984 is datable to MM II-III. CMS 112 16, from a MM II-III context in Kam- … verge considerably from the typical … elongated plate which is pierced lengthwise. According to Younger, the other stringhole is from a

main series appears to begin in MM II and it continues into the Late Bronze Age. … and a flat top. The name of this class derives from the fact that the examples are incised with … seal surfaces range from 1.7 x 2.5 to 3.8 cms.1 No consistent type of boring is observable: CMS … sometimes "Pears". In cases where the terminal of a Bottle is in the form of an animal head, the

they vary from 1.6 to 2.9 cms. Four of … Bottles ranges from good to very good; the … with motifs from datable contexts. The evidence for dating rests mainly on the occurrence of … Bottles in soft stone have flat or nearly flat seal faces and a stringhole set-off from the

tif which it carries is similar to that of CMS 115 45, from the MM IIB Phaistos sealing deposit

131, a 3a Bottle. CMS IV 64 also has an unusually large, set-off terminal, a characteristic which … 31:1), Z-whirls and a cross motif occur. Only one of these Bottles, CMS III 406, from an EM

spectively, although there is some deviation from these figures. The seal faces are generally flat … tain kinds of stars. Further evidence for dating comes from the attribution of several 4a But- … tons appear to be in active production from MM IB to MM III.

meter from 1.03 to 1.8 cms. CMS III 245 is bored with a j. stringhole and III 456 and 463 … manship of 4c Buttons ranges from fair to good.

Concave-convex Plates are tongue-like in shape. To judge from the grain of the ivory, they … counts for seven examples. Other motifs are an S-spiral, zig-zag and parallel lines (Motif 42:2).

within each of the two subvarieties vary somewhat in their shapes from one another; some are … Further help for the dating of this subclass is that CMS III 220 is from Lenda, Tholos III and … 6b Conoids from stratified contexts:

and continue to be made as late as MM II. All of the examples come from either Malia or the … faces. CMS III 84 has an ellipsoidal base … Ladder and Spiral Group. Further evidence for dating is that CMS III 206 comes from a MM IA … color from green to black.52 The diametei and height average 1.7 and 2.0 cms. respectively and

came to light in an EM II-MM IB context in Platanos Tholos A. On the grounds of style, typolo- … forms an intersected

The following examples come from stratified contexts: … On the basis of the stratified seals, it appears that irregular Conoids continue in production from

As implied by their name, these seals are cubic in form. CMS III 64 differs from the oth-

8a Cushions are in soft "serpentine", ranging in shade from light green to black. The aver- … In addition to these seals, a seal impression from the MM IIB Phaistos sealing deposit seems to

and the MM IIIB Temple Repository Mannerist Group.70 Only one 8b Cushion, HM 396, is from … tion, but which are roughly in the Cushion shape. These seals range in length from 1.5 to 1.9

ders ranges from good to excellent. … 222 and HM 2374 are near to this style-group. Three early Cretan Cylinders stem from stratified … and continue in productions into the Late Bronze Age.7 … shape is distinguishable from the Discoid with its circular and biconvex faces and thick edges. … Thus, a Lentoid impression is not as perfectly concave as one from a Discoid, convex Button or

variation from these averages. … excavated from datable contexts:

10b Discs are distinguished by an incised border on one or both seal faces. Most of these … which were excavated from stratified contexts: … range in diameter from 1.0 to

bored through the face and CMS V 27 is unbored. The workmanship of 10c Discs varies from … Border/Leaf Complex. Several 10c Discs come from stratified contexts: … so. The average dimensions are 1.5 x 0.7 cms., although 11a Discoids may vary in diameter from

others belong to the Classical Group of the same date. 11a Discoids from archaeological … depth of the engraving. 10b Discoids generally range in the quality of workmanship from very … is very different from that of 11a Discoids. Several lib Discoids are assigned to groups, including

amples from stratified contexts: … Bronze Age shape and Lentoids, principally a Late Bronze Age shape. Thus, it is logical that Len- … MM III: Although they show motifs of an essentially Neopalatial style-group, the Discoid shape

lie Bordered Discoids are biconvex with an incised heavy border on both faces. The edges … The term "Epomion" is borrowed from CMS IV but here is used in a broader sense than … IV 1 differ from the typical shape in that the grip is low and does not curve over to the side-. … 1.6 x 1.6 cms. in size but there is considerable deviation from these figures. The workmanship is

on the grounds of style, as the term is used here. Several Epomia are known from archaeologi- … The evidence from stratified examples and from the typology of materials suggests a tentative … arated by an incision. In length, these seals range from

forms in axial symmetry. Foliate Backs in hard stone range in length from 0.8 to 1.5 cms. and … The motifs which decorate 13c Foliate Backs include an owl, leaves, petaloid loops, a C- … meet at sixty degree angles. The motifs carved into Gables differ distinctly from those of Prisms.

Gables in ivory vary considerably in size and range in diamater from 1.1 to 2.3 cms. Six of … quality from fair to very good. These seals are relatively homogeneous in shape. … kelfiillung, an S-spiral, Zweipass and a ship. CMS III 393 is inscribed with hieroglyphs of the

for dating is provided by examples from stratified contexts: … the base and the height range respectively from 1.3 x 1.2 … light in Koumasa, Tholos B in an EM HI - MM I context which provides a lower terminus for its

positions. CS 88 shows an S-spiral from which two leaves spring. Half-Ovoids are assigned to … are square or slightly rectangular and which range in length from 1.2 to 1.8 cms. CMS III 217 … Further evidence for the chronology is provided by two examples which were excavated from

in shade from pale or olive … seal. The workmanship ranges- from fair to good in quality. … cylinders were excavated from the MM II Malia Workshop. Stylistic and stratigraphic evidence

MM IA (-? ) Border/Leaf Complex. Two examples from stratified contexts provide further evi-

The quality of workmanship ranges from good to very good. … viation from these averages. … light in an EM II context in Myrtos. The seals of this subclass are in evidence as early as EM II

there is generally little deviation from these averages. In the quality of workmanship, Lentoids in … in date from MM IB to MM III.136 CMS XII 130 belongs to the Classical Tectonic Group and … comes from a stratified context: CMS V 492 was excavated from a LM IA/LH I context in Kea.

1.4 cms. in diameter. The quality of workmanship ranges from very good to excellent and is con- … the contemporary Common Tectonic Group. HM 1318 is an early example of the "talisman- … all in ivory. Their diameter and height range respectively from 111 to 1.5 and from 0.47 to 0.6

355 and 356, are from an EM II-MM IB context in Porti, Tholos II. On the basis of the materi- … tions. They are distinguished here from Rectangular Plates, which have two broad and two nar- … "serpentine" which varies in shade from light green … shapes and dimensions. The quality of workmanship varies from fair to good. … script are of the MM II (-?) Hieroglyphic Deposit Group. An additional aid to the dating of 21a

(eight) and lightly banded carnelian (three). These Prisms range in length from 1.1 to 2.2 cms. … Bronze Age Cut Style of Boardman.157 While no 21b Prisms are stratigraphically datable, seven- … from fair to good.

Further evidence for the chronology is the presence of numerous seal impressions from 22a … class begins in the Prepalatial Period. The tholoi from which these Prisms stem, however, are … Malia Workshop, I see no grounds for distinguishing early from late 22a Prisms. A dating in … the faces and in nine examples the faces are actually set-off slightly from the mass of the seal.

tonic Group173 and Boardman's Late Bronze Cut Style.174 CMS III 150 and 168 are the only … Workshop. Impressions, which from their shape and decoration appear to be from 22b Prisms … On the basis of shape and material, 22c Prisms fall into two subvarieties which differ from … from the body of the seal. These seals range in length from 1.1 to 1.7 cms. Their workmanship … carved into a monumental block from the northwest corner of the palace at Knossos. Evans dated

examples are in ivory. The lengths of the bases range from 1.1 to 1.6 cms. CMS III 56 has a A … Complex. The two Pyramids excavated from stratified contexts provide further evidence for dat-

CMS III 193, from an EM II-MM IA context in Lenda, is the sole example from a stratified con- … is little deviation from these aver-

the MM IIB Phaistos sealing deposit. Stratigraphic and stylistic evidence suggest a dating from … The heights range from 0.9 to 3.2 cms. Four examples are in "serpentine" and the remainder are … suggests that these seals range in date from as early as EM II to MM IB. … 282 differs from the others in

from 1.6 to 2.9 cms. and are relatively homogeneous in their proportions. The workmanship of … II-MM IA Quatrefoil Group. On stylistic grounds, these seals appear to range in date from as … 26a Rectangular Plates are in ivory. They range from 1.5 to 2.1 cms. in length and are

from green to black in color. CMS VIII 30 is a soft, … The quality of workmanship ranges from fair to very … from very good to excellent.

meters range from 0.8 to 1.45 cms. In five of the cases both seal faces are decorated. The work- … is datable to MM IB-HI. The cross derivate on the reverse of this seal is similar to examples from … Complex. Finally, CMS III 189 (Motif 23:1), which came to light in an EM II-MM IA context

to light in an EM II-MM I context in Platanos Tholos T. On the basis of style and of ivory as a … hoops ranges from 1.1 to 2.5 cms. … as the inside diameters range from

28b Rings differ from those of the 28a subclass in … are bone, ivory and "serpentine". The quality of workmanship ranges from good to very good. … fullung and a whirl.- None of these seals is stylistically datable but four 28b Rings come from … The evidence from the typology of ivory as a seal material and stratigraphy suggests a tentative

their height 28c Rings range from 2.3 to 2.7 cms., when measured from the seal plate. These … dence for dating is provided by stratified examples: CMS III 185 and 191 both stem from EM … short than in the long axis. AGD II 35 has an ellipsoidal bezel but those … and those of the other three Rings range from 1.0 to 1.8 cms. A silver alloy (AGD II 35), gold … Two Rings stem also from stratified contexts:

One example of a stone set into an early Cretan metal Ring is extant. The base of the … is held by the copper or bronze hoop. It does not appear to be bored. The quality of the work- … er examples are unbored. The lengths of 29a Scarabs range from 1.3 to 1.7 cms. and these seals … ficult to discuss owing to the absence of photos taken from the front and above. The forelegs

from 1.0 to 1.6 cms. The anatomy of Scarabs in hard stone is not as well differentiated as that … for example, those of CMS III 117, a 29a Scarab. The workmanship ranges from good to very … CMS III 118 and IV 133 show tubular drill ornament of a kind datable from MM IB to MM III. … amples, at the moment, are known from Crete.

from 1.4 to 1.5 cms. Soft, shiny "serpentine" occurs in all three cases. The workmanship varies … represented. These seals range from 1.5 to 1.8 cms. in length. They comprise a subclass relatively … 0.6 cms. CMS III 331 has a flat base, is ellipsoidal in plan and has an undecorated, convex

and have a neck or eyelet which is morphologically differentiated from the seal body. … the stringhole is bored from each side

CMS III 445 and IV 46 differ from the other seals of this subclass in that their terminals are in- … scratching and the cross with Zwickelfullung. Three Hammer-head Signets from stratified contexts … seal faces. An eyelet is bored through the terminal. … gy of ivory as a seal material, an EM II-MM IA dating is suggested for 31c Signets.

pierced grips. The seals of this subclass range from … These seals^are in soft "serpentine". Their bases range in length from 1.5 to 2.8 cms. The work- … from an EM II-MM IB context in Porti, is stratigraphically datable. The random scratching on … Malia Workshop Complex. The seals of this subclass appear to date from EM II-III until MM IB-

Further evidence for dating comes from examples which are assigned to groups. CMS III 413 is

whirl.230 An aid for the dating of CMS XII 34 is its attribution to the EM II-MM IA Quatrefoil … a dull serpentine/chlorite but the other examples are in glossy "serpentine", which ranges from … ing is provided by a stratified example. CMS 112 49 came from a MM III context in Profitis Ilias.

stone average 1.3 cms. in both the diameter and height and they range in height from 1.0 to 1.6 … dating is provided by examples from stratified contexts:

dence for dating is provided by examples from stratified contexts: … In addition to these seals, impressions are known, which from their circular, flat impressions, ap-

CMS X 48 distinguishes itself from the other seals of this subclass by its highly convex face and … gold Petscbaft, has an ellipsoidal base … ing lugs arranged 120 degrees from one another. A bullet-like terminal is decoratively relieved and … similarity in shape to 31i-k Petscbafte. Knossos HI (Motif 57:6), a seal impression from the MM

differ from Cylinder … most are circular. The diameter of the larger bases and the height range from 0.7 - 4.0 and 0.9 - … ples from stratified contexts:

The evidence from stratified examples, style and ivory as a seal material suggests that most … distinguished from … of the larger base and the height range from 1.1-1.35 and 1.3-3.2 cms. respectively. The average … provided by examples from stratified contexts:

rock crystal. These seals deviate, often considerably from the usual cylindrical form and the … from those of 32a and 32b Stamp Cylinders. The most common is random scratching, which ac- … Complex. Several 32c Stamp Cylinders come from stratified contexts: … Miscellaneous Stamp Cylinders assigned to style-groups and coming from stratified contexts are in

shaped like stumps. The features of these four heads are not differentiated enough to allow an … hole; III 469 is bored from the lower part of the nose to the top of the head; and CMS III 294 … stemming from a stratified context is CMS III 469, from an EM II-III context in Sphoungaras. … In height, 33b Zoomorphs range from 1.9 to 2.5 cms. and their sizes as well as proportions are

33b Zoomorphs is provided by two examples from stratified contexts: CMS III 209 and 213 … material and decoration from one another. The animals of CMS III 129; IV 32 and VIII 36 are … diameter of the seal faces ranges from 0.8 to 1.67 cms. The quality of workmanship is good in … arated from the bodies of the two animals but rather are tucked in within the mass of the seal

dony. These seals are generally of medium size and range in length or maximum diameter from

the hooves. The six examples discussed here range in height from 1.4 to 3.6 cms. Their work- … and CMS XII 37 belongs to the MM IB-II Malia Workshop Complex. CMS III 170, from an EM

102

vessel (Motif 53:15)

104

aside from Prisms in soft stone, little of it may be extant. This same void in our knowledge has … slant down from the top (fig. a and c). A less common kind of stringhole is formed by a hori- … reasons. First, more seals are available from this period and second, more unmixed contexts are … fall at least partially within this ceramic period. About 550 seals from the Malia Workshop Com-

105

as an estimated 200 hard stone seals date within MM II and forty-one percent of the seals data- … already in MM II, plays an important part in MM III. … 1 For an overall view of the different seal shapes see pp. 27-31 and PI. 35 for the dating. In checking the

106

23 For a Bottle from a MM II-III context, see 3c Bottles.

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42 CMS III 149, 279, 467; IV 35-37, 54, 55; CS 28. CMS IV 54 differs from the others as it has chevron- … 54 The seal from a private collection has only been preliminarily published as a sketch and its material is un-

108

(=17:7), from the Hieroglyphic Deposit in Knossos, another Cushion impression. … 72 Younger, Seals 162-168 for the Late Bronze Age Cushions.

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corated with V-cuts (Motif 37:2). V-cuts, however, were carved also later, as attested to by a seal from the … 99 Knossos Pd, from the MM IIB Hieroglyphic Deposit, is an impression which is concave and circular in plan. … comes from a LM IHA1 context. The future excavation of Discoids from LM I contexts may alter the

111

from an EB context in Kea. … 139 Younger lists over ten Lentoids from MM IH-LM I contexts in Seals (pp. 19-21). They are excluded here

112

175 HM 1332 came to light in a mixed context in Mavro Spelio and BM 1897.4-16.20 is from a mixed con-

113

197 The cross-hatched motif of CMS IV 28D is identical with a sealing design from the MM IIB Phaistos seal- … 203 Respectively from Tholoi I and II.

114

(=16:1), 310 (11:17). My identifications of the impressions from metal Rings do not always agree with … 215 Except for CM 184 which has an exceptionally high back. … 218 CS 126 appears to be an Egyptian import which is engraved with a Minoan motif (SM I 136-137). This … 232 The place of origin of this shape is difficult to determine and Levi's suggestion for an Anatolian origin is

115

244 Exception: CM 14 is near to the EM II-MM IA Quatrefoil Group and deviates from its fellow Petschafte … 250 MM IIB Phaistos sealing deposit: CMS 115 299, 300, 311; from the MM IIB Hieroglyphic Deposit: P55,

116

264 Two seal impressions from 32a or 32b Stamp Cylinders are known from later contexts: Knossos Tb (MM

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290 CMS III 296; IV 91 and 15D appear to be cow or bull hooves, at least to judge from their heavy propor- … 293 Compare this seal motif with impressions from the MM IIB Phaistos sealing deposit (Motif 24:17 with

Chapter 4: Decorative Elements

118

treated here as such, separate from stylistic considerations (chapter 7). In the following we shall … An index of the examples of each motif occurs at the end of each motif discussion. In … only slightly or insignificantly from the one illustrated. When the parallels quoted are preceded … among the designs stamped on sealings from the MM HB Hieroglyphic Deposit in Knossos. The

119

Evidently stratigraphically later in date is the profile of a head reproduced in no. 5, from … The earliest representation of a human being (no. 6) on an Aegean seal comes from Moch- … seems to be in part determined by the shape of the field. From this time on in Aegean glyptic … The representation shown in no. 7 is carved on an ivory seal from an EM II-III context in … the Animals" motif is known from Neopalatial seals. The sole known erotic scene in Aegean … no. 12 the figures also appear in an conventional pose and are arranged in an outline composi-

120

with an object in the hand. Less common are groups of two and three figures. … 33 appears to be a depiction of an acrobat. … is rendered with a minimum of detail. The pose is similar to ones known from the Malia Work- … midst of the action. While these figures show an attempt at the naturalistic rendering of muscu- … bull and man of no. 47 are static in their poses, although an action scene is obviously intended.

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this head are articulated in a highly stylized fashion and are rendered by cuts from a solid as

122

matic than those from EM HI-MM IA. … ther running or leaping. In no. 13 a goat is posed with an object, possibly an arrow, entering its … of the MM II (-III?) Drilled Lions Group. Nos. 29 and and 30 are designs from the MM IIB Hi- … The most naturalistic early Cretan representations of goats are those from the Phaistos seal- … the most ambitious extant attempts hitherto to suggest an animal in a landscape setting. But

123

dence for the chronology comes from three designs: nos. 43, 47 and 48. The first of these came … ing goat and in no. 48 two goats and a dog appear in an outline composition. Nos. 47 and 48 … workmanship. The long and banded horns also occur in several other representations from the … quarters are carefully modelled and differentiated from each other. This motif is more correctly

124

is engraved on a Prism of the MM IB-II Malia Workshop Subgroup. A further example on an im- … ing drill for decorative effects. Bucrania are generally shown frontally but no. 8, excavated from … The earliest extant representations of bulls (as distinguished from bucrania) are carved on … The bull depicted in no. 11 is engraved on an 8b Cushion stemming from a MM II House … rendered by means of simple drill holes. The representation in no. 13, a sealing design from the … The representation of a bull shown in no. 14 is engraved on an lib Discoid which came to … Nos. 16 and 17 show sealing designs excavated from the MM IIIB Temple Repository in … handstand from the animal's knee. The plastic articulation of the musculature of the bull is some-

125

tubular drill held at an angle to the stone. The antlers are fantastically elaborated. No similar rep- … A single motif with deer is known from the Malia Workshop Complex. In no. 3 two stags … cutting technique and style of this finely fashioned intaglio are comparable to those known from … A representation of a doe suckling a fawn was excavated from the MM IIIB Temple Repos-

126

is summarily modelled and the shoulder is plastically distinguished from the chest. The forelegs … verse side of the seal find parallels with examples from the Phaistos sealing deposit. … from MM IIB contexts in Mavro Spelio and Phaistos. That appearing in no. 6 is sketchily ren- … the boar is schematically rendered and its legs are simple cuts exiting from the body. Three leaf-

127

The sole representation of sheep heads in early Cretan glyptic occurs on an impression … clear whether a dog or a lion is intended. Here the features used to distinguish lions from dogs … The head depicted in no. 1 has a gaping mouth full of sharp teeth, an ear and jagged cuts

128

ten sketchily modelled. The manes are usually cross-hatched and distinctly differentiated from … of the head (no. 6). Generally the lions of this style-complex are arranged in an outline compos- … simplified in a very controlled and abstracting manner. Cuts from the drill articulate the shoulder, … The lions in nos. 15-21 stem from the MM IIB Phaistos sealing deposit. A variety of poses … A design from the MM IIIB Temple Repository shows a woman posed alongside a lion … tifs from the Repository.

129

As criteria are lacking which permit one to distinguish representations of dogs from those … and 2, were excavated, respectively from the MM IIB Phaistos sealing deposit and the Hieroglyph- … pository. This design shows three heads in an outline arrangement. The mouths, noses, ears and

130

The only representation extant from the end of the Old Palatial Period (no. 13) stems from … These heads are generally formed by cuts from a solid drill in combination with the tubular … rendered by means of borings from a solid and tubular drill. The cat shown in no. 4 is also … in a running nor jumping pose. The body of the cat is formed by straight cuts and borings from

131

matic representations of quadrupeds as the development of clarity of expression plays an impor- … A design from the MM IIB Phaistos sealing deposit (no. 5) reproduces a quadruped stand- … produced in no. 6 and a scene of coupling or animal combat appears in no. 7. No. 8, from a re- … deer or goats, to judge from analagous representations on seals of this style-complex.

132

the Old Palatial Period. Only four examples (nos. 25-28), which stem from the MM IIB Phaistos … An unusual example of waterbirds in an outline composition is seen in no. 5, which is en- … of detail. Two further examples of waterbirds stem from the MM IIB Phaistos sealing deposit (nos. … A few representations of owls are known on early Cretan seals. No. 9, from the MM IIB

133

Deposit Group and no. 10 is also of this style-group. While nos. 9 and 10 differ from each other … sentations of chicks from this style complex all appear in this same pose. In no. 15 two birds … An unusual representation of a standing bird almost completely enclosed in a branch-like … mal quota of eight legs, it is likely that spiders indeed were intended to judge from the propor-

134

in an outline composition, appears on a seal attributed to the EM III-MM IA Parading Lions/Spi- … the MM II (-? ) Hieroglyphic Deposit Group and is similar in appearance to those known from … frequently MM III. No. 8 shows a schematic representation of a spider on an impression from the … carved. Two examples from the MM IIB Phaistos sealing deposit (nos. 11 and 12) are more sche- … an outline composition formed by three scorpions, is carved on a seal of the EM III-MM IA Pa- … shown on the seals of this complex varies from case to case and examples with six, eight or more

135

from a reported EM III context in Viannos. The three fish depicted on this seal are rendered … details to allow an unequivocal identification. … of a similar kind was already noted in no. 7, from the MM IIB Hieroglyphic Deposit in Knossos.

136

In no. 2 a crab appears on a Plump Discoid, an essentially Old Palatial shape. The motif, … from the MM IIIB Temple Repository. Six legs, two pincers and two eye-antennae are clearly ren- … ing design from the MM IIB Hieroglyphic Deposit, the cuttlefish appears in a grotto next to a

137

al. They consist of little more than an ellipsoidal body and tentacles. … The body is that of a lion and the face appears to be human. Unlike the sphinxes known from

138

ual. An even more finely engraved wingless sphinx is shown in no. 2. The long curls are similar … is on an impression from the MM IIB Phaistos sealing deposit. One can make out the broad out- … Three representations of griffins are shown in nos. 4-6, all three of which stem from the … The Minoan Genius is first attested to in MM IIB by an impression from the Hieroglyphic … In no. 10 a Minoan Genius is depicted which holds an inanimate goat or doe in its paws. … seal impression from the MM IIB Phaistos sealing deposit. … motif is engraved on an lib (? ) Discoid, is wheel-cut and is in its style similar to seals of the

139

seal impression from the MM IIIB Temple Repository. The Ring which originally made the im- … The representation of two addorsed and seated monkeys in no. 4 is carved on an ivory seal … A second representation of a monkey (no. 5) appears on a seal impression from the MM IIB

140

The earliest known leaves as seal decoration (no. 1) occur on an ivory Stamp Cylinder from … early arrangement of leaves (no. 2) is carved on a seal from an EM II-III context in Maronia Sit- … assignment to style-groups. No. 3 is carved on a seal which comes from a reported EM III-MM … patterns, were especially favored - all symmetrical compositions. Following MM IA, seals from … Leaves from MM IB contexts are represented by a single seal from Archanes (no. 28), which … similar to examples from the Border/Leaf Complex (cf. nos. 9, 13, 15, 26).

141

37 and 39). The design which appears in no. 38 stems from a reported MM II context in Mon- … The leaf-motifs on impressions from the MM IIB Phaistos sealing deposit (nos. 44-54) are … examples stems from a stratified context and thus their dating is somewhat uncertain. However,

142

Multiple loops differ from them in that instead of a broad end of the loop, three small loops ap- … together axially are also known. In no. 5 smaller loops grow outward from the curl. … cases lilies are rendered issuing from the vortexes of running spirals (cf. no. 2). These lilies are

143

A decoratively stylized representation of a branch appears in no. 4, a sealing design from … Dozens of examples of concentric circles with a center point are carved on seals from MM … of the motifs on the other seal faces. No. 2 differs from the main series of centered circles for

144

metrically. In no. 3, cut into an ivory seal, the centered circles are asymmetrically scattered over … and no. 6 into an 11a Discoid. Both seals stem from EM II-MM IB contexts in Platanos. 11a Dis- … on seals from MM III contexts (cf. nos. 18 and 19) and on late seal shapes, one is somewhat … The concentric circle ornament shown in no. 7 is cut on an Amygdaloid which was found … tation point. Second, they are cut into stones with an average hardness of Moh's 7, as opposed … 15-17 show seal impression designs from the MM IIB Phaistos deposit whose crisp lines and

145

ogy of find contexts. In the plate section usually one example from the Classical and one from … 10 diverging from edge A 0

146

into two semicircular halves of which one is decorated by cuts radiating from the center. This … lines radiating from the center. On the seals of the Classical Group the radiating lines form pic- … T-compositions (nos. 15 and 16), lines diverging from the edge (nos. 17 and 18), central and … to designs which radiate from a corner. There is no way at present to determine conclusively if

147

Several examples are known from contexts dated on the basis of stratigraphy: The cross- … Cross-hatching is undocumented on seals from contexts datable solely to MM IB. No. 20 is … unclear how many of the examples there are from MM II seals or from those held over from ear-

148

heterogeneous category of decoration. Most are based on a simple cross or an elaboration on this … the same simple forms. The unusual design depicted in no. 6 appears on an ivory seal which is … tal arms are intersected by diagonals. Cuts also splay out from the horizontal arm which serve to … No. 9 shows a centrally radiating cross on a seal impression from a MM II context in Monastira- … motifs which give an idea of the kind of seals which produced the impressions in Phaistos. … somewhat problematic. For example, no. 32 shows a motif known on seals from both EM II and

149

Nos. 1 and 2 show motifs which are carved on seals from a possible EM I context in Len- … Complex; no. 8 shows one face of a Three-sided Prism from the Malia Workshop itself. … excavated from a middle to late Middle Bronze Age context in Kea. It is not dissimilar in appear-

150

from the MM IIB Phaistos deposit. Most of these stars have six points. In some of the designs … No. 12 is cut into a Discoid which was excavated from a reported MM III context in Pro- … Kamilari. This motif recalls the star motifs seen from the Phaistos sealing deposit (cf. nos. 5 and

151

parallel and alternating hatching differs from the triangular Zwickelfiillung in that it suggests ro- … an lib Discoid in hard stone; this shape/material combination generally dates to MM II-III. In no. … No examples are known from later contexts. … angles seem also to have survived later. No. 8 shows a seal motif which was unearthed from the

152

other finds there.93 No. 8 and CMS 112 303c, from the MM IB-II Malia Workshop Complex, de- … known on about thirty early Cretan seals. Few of the earliest meandroid motifs come from data- … an aid in suggesting the overlapping of forms. About thirty-five examples of interlace are known … a simple and irregular interlace which forms the center of an outline composition composed of

153

No. 16 shows a complex interlace pattern on a seal impression which was excavated from … tos designs remind one of those from the Prepalatial Period. Early examples are just as intri-

154

to the EM III-MM IA (-? ) Border/Leaf Complex (e.g. nos. 1 and 2). No. 1 stems from an EM … shop Complex and that in no. 5 is from a Petscbaft of the MM II (-? ) Hieroglyphic Deposit … the name implies, a central line is flanked by parallel lines which branch off diagonally from it.

155

from the MM IIB Hieroglyphic Deposit and was impressed by a seal of the MM II (-? ) Hieroglyph- … the definition of the EM III-MM IA (-? ) Border/Leaf Complex (cf. no. 1). No. 2 is cut into an

156

in an oudine composition and in nos. 2-4 they appear in a segmental composition. Nos. 1-3 are

157

field in an outline composition. The aligned borings shown in no. 1 are drilled into an 11a Dis- … a zig-zag appears on a seal which stems from a MM IA context in Lenda. The motif forms a un- … Mavro Spelio. Another, shown in no. 4, is cut on a Discoid which was excavated from a MM III … stone which was excavated from a grave in Mochlos which contained MM III and possibly EM II

158

the main motif. The spiral in no. 1 is from one face of a Prism-seal assigned to the MM IA-IB … the dating is that typical (e.g. 4a) Buttons are evidently an Old Palatial shape. Nos. 3 and 4 show … erogeneous and which is known from about twenty seals. These motifs differ from S-spirals in … to the MM IB-II Malia Workshop Complex. In this design the spiral is posed atop an arrow-like

159

Hieroglyphic Deposit Group. No. 8, an impression from the MM IIB Phaistos sealing deposit, … J-spirals and J-hooks comprise a heterogeneous category of ornament known from about … to light in an EM II-MM IA context in Marathokephalo. Hooks similar to those shown in no. 1 … light in the MM IIB Phaistos sealing deposit. Stylistically similar seal motifs are also known from

160

No. 12, a sealing design excavated from the MM IIIB Temple Repository, is composed of … S-hooks and S-spirals comprise a large and heterogeneous category of ornament known from … The S-spirals shown in no. 2 are carved on an ivory Epomion-seal which is tentatively data- … Lions/Spiral Complex; the occurrence of this seal in an EM III-MM IA context in Archanes pro- … shop Complex. The most commonly occurring types are a spiral with a flourish issuing from ei-

161

designs a lily generally issues from both of the vortexes of the spiral in axial symmetry (cf. no. … The spiral with "leaves" issuing from the vortexes of the scrolls is well documented on … by two ladder bands. The Cylinder seal bearing this motif comes from a MM HI context in Pro- … The Zweipass is an axially composed rotational motif which on seals often is formed of

162

are distinct from centrally radiating motifs (Motif 26). … light in an EM III-MM IA context in Archanes. Three J-hooks, which are oriented in the same … pointed ends form an encircled border for the motif.

163

field finds a parallel with a design from a MM I context. Thus, the original seal could possibly … main motif but an exception is no. 12 in which two examples are placed in two of the quarters … ing of no. 5 is strengthened by the fact that the seal to which it belongs stems from an EM III- … In no. 8 the Vierpass is formed by petaloid loops which spin off of an irregular ring. Where … tion and suggest a counter-clockwise rotation. Lines which radiate tangentially from the center

164

ings. Unmodelled petaloid loops issue from the vortexes. The two Vierpasse viewed in no. 12 … tif. An exception is no. 7 which shows four whirls. Among the earliest known whirls is no. 1, … from a context of this same date in Archanes. The motif is formed by seven radially arranged J- … In no. 5 teeth project from the outermost of three irregular but concentric circles. The … gold Petschaft, is composed of three pairs of J-hooks, each of which terminates with an arrow.

165

by three strands. In no. 11 six pairs of identical J-hooks are interlocked on the border in an out- … issue from the two angles and in no. 3, three arms of the "Z" branch off axially on opposite … the topic of Minoan ships.112 The following discussion differs from these in that it is intention-

166

to the EM III-MM IA (-? ) Border/Leaf Complex. From left to right this ship is equipped with a … no. 4 are hardly different in their essentials from the Prepalatial example seen in no. 1. … on seal impressions. No. 6 is from the MM IIB Phaistos deposit and no. 7 is from the MM IIIB … dered vessel types are the two-handled neck amphora (no. 1) and pitcher (no. 2). Other vessel … vessels slung from a pole (nos. 11 and 12) and humans sometimes are shown carrying such a pole

167

Representations of vessels (nos. 13 and 14) are also known from the MM IIB Phaistos seal- … tions and in the placement of the handles, it resembles certain vessel shapes of the Classical Ka- … Double axes are known on seal impressions from MM I contexts (nos. 2 and 3) in Knossos. … Nos. 5 and 6, two designs from the MM IIB Hieroglyphic Deposit in Knossos, show double

168

During the Late Bronze Age representations of double axes are not uncommon on seals. … setting, such as can be taken in from one point of view. In contrast, "landscape elements" refer … than those of the Prepalatial Period. In nos. 3 and 4, both of which are sealing designs from the … bove and below suggest a scene which takes place in a grotto. No. 5, engraved on an lib Dis- … Nos. 6 and 7, both from the MM IIB Phaistos sealing deposit, show landscape scenes. In no.

169

right conventionalized rocks are depicted as well. From the examples shown in nos. 3, 4 and 7 … MM IIIB Temple Repository Mannerist Group and no. 10 is a sealing design from the Temple Re- … youth together with an architectural feature. In no. 10 a human figure is depicted with a column … an seal designs and thus may not be omitted here. The following notes are simply intended as an … in style and in the signs represented from typical examples of the "Hieroglyphic A" seals (cf.

170

and "...a cursive script which accompanied hieroglyphs from the start and which should be … A definition and dating of early Cretan scripts, like that of styles and motifs is an aid in … These motifs generally appear inside a field bordered by an incision. … from a MM II seal workshop in Malia comprise the main stratified find for the 550 known exam- … Typical Hieroglyphic A inscriptions consist of one or two signs which are inscribed on each … Moreover, in certain cases more than one or two signs appear on each face of the Prisms. An

171

Hieroglyphic A seals differ significantly from those bearing the Archanes script principally … has yet to be found in a purely Prepalatial context. An attractive hypothesis for the dating of … erably from each other. For example, representations of humans, the most common motif in Hi- … ly from the MM IIB Hieroglyphic Deposit in Knossos and contemporary Phaistos sealing deposit.

172

an impression from the MM IIB Hieroglyphic Deposit in Knossos. No. 6 was stamped by a Pet- … tifs on Middle Bronze Age seals. … from each other. Stylization in a motif may be so pronounced that without other, more repre-

173

by Furumark in 1939 into the literature on Aegean archaeology, describes a process in which an … and enough examples of highly refined pictorialized or abstracted intaglios with an essentially … no. 3 with Motif 11:3). No. 5 shows an animal head and leg as well as a body which is formed

174

glyphic Deposit Group (nos. 11-15, 17-21). An obvious example is the cat mask which evidences … and a fragmented croix pommetee. Nos. 20 and 21 evidence motifs abstracted from hieroglyphs. … have assumed from the viewer a considerable familiarity with the contemporary visual elements. … from the MM IIB Phaistos sealing deposit, is one of several motifs which may be referred to as … No. 28, a sealing design from the MM IIIB Temple Repository in Knossos was described

175

beliefs and ideas). An essentially magical or religious explanation for changes in style as such, … Schiering's treatment of the motifs under discussion as a reflection of an attempt to create … As Gombrich notes with reference to works of art from later periods, one is in danger of

176

In MM II motifs such as cross-hatching are still in production, not to mention ones from … ones. However, what little is preserved from this period may not represent a completely repre- … In the earliest figural representations, there is little evidence for an interest in giving the … narrative is fully developed but the first true landscapes are documented in MM II. An inter-

177

6 Cf. CMS I 89; See Younger, Seals 241-246 for the occurrence of this motif in the Late Bronze Age. … 12 The context from which this Cushion stems in Kalyvia contained "LM I? " and later materials, but the

178

from this same style-group. Cf. Motifs 11:9, 10. … 45 Younger lists only butterflys and dragonflys as insects depicted on Late Bronze Aegean seals (Seals 362- … 46 For this dating, infra 198. I have changed my mind on the dating of this seal from that stated … 50 CS 221 may also possibly date as early as MM IIIB. Younger lists no examples from the Late Bronze Age … 52 I borrow the term "cuttlefish" from Furumark, MP. This motif is also referred to as a "sepia" (cf. CMS IV … 55 Whorl shells are also unusual on Late Bronze Aegean seals. Cf. Younger, Seals 366.

179

57 For representations of sphinxes and griffins on Late Bronze Aegean seals, cf. Younger, Seals 368-369 and … 68 For the branch motif on Late Bronze Agean seals, cf. Younger, Seals 394-395.

180

82 No. 25 is similar enough to no. 7 (which is from an EM II-MM IA context) that it possibly may have … over from an earlier period. … 99 An exception is CMS III 330. … 101 Exceptions: CMS 112 112, similar to no. 4, is from the MM II Malia Workshop. No. 3 is carved on a … 103 No. 6 is engraved on a Petscbaft said to come from a MM II context in Knossos.

181

107 Knossos Tc = BSA 8 (1901-02) 106 fig. 63. But cf. also the design from a globular Kamares jar from … 109 Here I would like to correct an earlier statement (AA [1977] 145) that Vierpasse do not crowd the bor- … 114 Cf. Marinatos in Gray, "Seewesen" 140 fig. 26 (the ship from the Thera fresco).

182

153 Cf. also Knossos Tf, an example of another unrelated script. Seals bearing scripts different from the above-

183

159 E. Hall, The Decorative Arts of Crete in the Bronze Age (Philadelphia 190/') 10, "...naturalistic designs not … 162 The interpretation of these motifs as "conventional representations of architecture" stems from Evans … tive of a doorway. Second, schematic representations of reed architecture as well known from ancient … 172 Here and at other places it is not always easy to distinguish style from content.

184

friihen Steppenvolker (Baden-Baden 1964) figs. 7, 8, 10, 11, 14 etc.; Cf. Luristan bronzes: (tenth-ninth

Chapter 5: Decorative Syntax

185

tion is based on an analytical attitude to the separate parts of the compositional field, resulting

186

bers of seals from Late Helladic contexts show "Minoan" structure , but many sealing designs … cation of decorative syntax is based on rigorous criteria and with an eye to how representative … elements may appear in outline, rapport, radiating, segmental and frieze systems. Motifs with an … Radiacion. Kadiating motifs issue from the center to the periphery They are adaptable and occur

187

ical concentration occurs in the Phaistos sealing deposit from which over seventy examples are … ly contemporary Border/Leaf Complex. Outline composition also is an important characteristic of … and second by structurally contrasting forms. An example of the former principle is the cross … (-?) Border/Leaf Complex30, certain motifs from the MM IB-II Malia Workshop as well as the … portant factor is that the field is large enough to allow an overall effect, and larger seals in ivor- … Period. In the latter period they are known principally from fifteen cross-hatched motifs from

188

be added twenty-six motifs which are mostly impressions from Prisms. … the needs of filling the field. The fields may be composed with an overall rapport pattern or by … incised grooves which have an enclosing effect. The necks and terminals of these seals are in- … 1 For an overview of syntactic systems, see PI. 33. Some of the points mentioned here found confirmation in … lies in raising an awareness of these tendencies. He seems to have been unaware of an earlier, more impres-

189

sionistic discussion of Minoan composition by Edits Hall in "The Decorative Arts of Crete in the Bronze … Matz believed Bandornament to be derived from southeastern Europe (FKS 340, 267). Shortly following … motifs (ASAtene 35-36 [1957-58] 191). In 1964, shortly after the publication of finds from Catal Huyiik, … ornament in Karahuyuk, Levi suggested that the artists who produced similar motifs in Phaistos came from … us not to be too quick in generalizing from the material currently available.

Chapter 6: Materials and techniques of manufacture

192

The stones and other materials from which Aegean seals are made have been variously de- … largely on the basis of color and the identification of particular stones from Latin, Akkadian, … ate from those cited in the CMS. Thus "steatite" is generally referred to as "serpentine" or … As the hardness of the materials is an important help in identification, the hardness of each

193

Agate derives its name from the river Achates in Sicily and is reported to come from E- … well documented from several spots in southern Arabia and Egypt . Sard is probably also ob-

194

An unusual material for the manufacture of seals is clay. Seven seals in clay are listed in … the uncommittal term "frit/faience", adopted from Haviland's study of early Cretan seals, is used … from several examples which I examined in the Ashmolean Museum. All of the twenty-nine … in "white steatite" and from the MM II Malia Workshop, is the only exception which is consid-

195

MM II by comparison with stylistic parallels from the MM IIB Phaistos sealing deposit. AGD II … are grainy in appearance and in all cases grey. An identification of this material with basalt is … Ivory and bone play an important role in the history of early Cretan seals, and nineteen … Most Egyptian ivory appears to have come from further south , although hippopotami, which … ies. A North African source is also known. The examination of these seals by an expert … seals stem from Prepalatial contexts. Second, of the total number of ivory seals about sixty are … plex.48 Of these CMS III 420 comes from a context of uncertain date in Malia and CMS 112

196

Ivory seals have been excavated in quantity from northern, eastern and southern Crete. The … style-groups or comes from archaeological contexts which are MM II or later in date. Jasper … Lapis lazuli is an opaque, dark blue stone often veined with white (calcite) and sometimes … beginning of the Neopalatial Period. HM 2374 comes from a reported MM IB context in Phour-

197

ated from a MM III-LM I context in Sphoungaras. Lead is not a material particularly resistant to … Limestones range from soft to middle-hard and from smooth to crystalline, depending on the de- … the field. Marble may also be difficult to distinguish from "serpentine". In certain cases I changed … by the presence of tiny air cavities and the coloring comes from trace elements. While the fibrous … sels, has been reported in Crete. Lucas reports amethyst, quartz and rock crystal from several … the Bronze Age.

198

group.75 CMS III 366, a 32c Stamp Cylinder from Porti, is dated by its context, which contained … X-ray diffraction. • For this reason, I have refrained from taking a position in the preceding chap- … tified as serpentine-chlorite (? eleven) or chlorite (seven). Although many of the seals from the … Bronze Age.

200

geometrically precise to an extent that it is inconceivable that they were cut with an unstable … CMS HI 366, which was excavated from a context containing no material later in date than MM … Deposit Group. On these the tubular drill was often applied at an angle to produce crescents , … the use of the running drill for cutting Aegean seals. Hand polishers must have played an impor- … removed pieces of metal from the intaglio. Pini has suggested that this tool could have been in … from EM II or possibly earlier and continues throughout the Bronze Age. Ivory is first document- … is also difficult. They comprise about forty-one percent of the extant Middle Bronze Age seals.

201

Many of the materials used for early Cretan seals appear to come from the Near East … Pliny devoted an entire book of his "Historia Naturalis" to precious stones, he is too vague and inaccurate … 1973) 4, Btthler expresses the opinion that at the latest in the fifth century BC the Greeks were aware of an

202

20 T.E. Page notes that "sard" etymologically has nothing to do with the city Sardes but is rather derived from … 27 They are sometimes also difficult to distinguish from bone and ivory.

203

AfO 5 (1928-29) 75 n. 2 from p. 73.

204

74 CMS VII 36. This seal is internally fractured, probably from rapid variations in temperature. The color of

205

Richard Hahn, an instructor of seal carving, examined the tool marks on Minoan seals and confirmed this … but rather an abrasive stone. W. Fischer, "Zur Entwicklung der Steinschleiftechnik," Der AufschluS (Fest- … ing existed in the Bronze Age. Maureen Yule, a professional engraver, confirmed this opinion.

Chapter 7: Style-Groups

206

occur on seals from both Early and Middle Minoan groups. In any case, a degree of visual homo- … er seals into a group. An example is the Parading Lions/Spiral Complex. The stratigraphic basis

207

shape, carving technique or all three. Style-complexes differ from groups in that the attributes

208

3 Id Small Plate Signets, an unusual shape. The materials of the known examples appear to be … manship of these seals is very good. CMS III 469, from an EM II-III context in Sphoungaras, pro- … workmanship ranges from fair to good. A significant feature is that all except CM 14 have fluted … The Parading Lions/Spiral Complex derives its name from the fact that about half of the

209

sistently reoccurs. The workmanship ranges from very good to excellent and the carving technique … As already mentioned, the animal motifs are typically arranged in an outline scheme. On about … ical in shape to CM 2. The bilateral branch, which on CMS III 254 is associated with an S-spiral … fied examples from Archanes and Gournes. The leaf ornament on CMS III 63, 222, 251, 387 and

210

The Border/Leaf Complex derives its name from the fact that about half of the 160 known … are attributed to the Border/Leaf Complex. The quality of workmanship ranges from very good to … 2) is known exclusively from this style-complex. The animals most often depicted include the … Stratified seals from Archanes (EM III-MM IA), Gournes Pediada (MM IA, IB) and Lenda … to the Old Palatial Period: CMS 112 109, from the MM II Malia Workshop, bears hatched triangles … frit/faience. Frit/faience is practically unique to this group and may have come to Crete from the

211

The Platanos Goat Complex derives its name from the three seals from Platanos, tholos B … carved (12:14). The goat depicted on CMS 115 263 differs in its pose from the others of this … tial Period. CMS 115 263, from the MM IIB Phaistos sealing deposit, may have been impressed by … The Ladder and Spiral Group derives its name from the ladder ornament and the J- and S- … the shapes play an important role in defining this group. Certain materials also aid in identifica- … cases an outline composition is characteristic.

212

The Malia Workshop derives its name from the hoard of approximately one hundred Three- … Complex are in soft, shiny "serpentine" ranging in shade from pale green to black. Lighter colors … schematized bodies. The workmanship ranges from fair to very good and is fair to good in the … stand alone or which hang from poles (Motif 1:19-31, 33-42). Goats (2:9-16), dogs (8:5-7), uni- … Malia Workshop Complex. Representations of animals are often schematic to the point that an

213

stratigraphic evidence comes in the form of two seals and an impression. The seals stem respec- … ning of the Old Palatial Period. Aside from the stratified evidence, two arguments can be offered … ous in style, technique and iconography perhaps owing to an extended period of production. Sec- … The Malia Workshop Subgroup is an offshoot of the Malia Workshop Complex and both … the motifs and thus, the style of the motifs differs from that of the Malia Workshop Complex. The

214

cursive articulation of the body parts and the figural proportions resemble those of figures from … The dating is largely stylistic as only two examples, CMS 112 150 and 168, are from strat- … test either the earliest common use of hard stone or are simply provincial and date from MM II … The Petaloid/Star Group derives its name from the fact that nearly all of the seals are … Several of the seals attributed to the Petaloid/Star Group stem from datable archaeological

215

IIB, yielded Knossos P52. An additional clue for the dating is that the seal shapes characteristic … The Hieroglyphic Deposit Group derives its name from a hoard of scattered bars, labels and … y. Third, the motifs are generally formed by deeply carved lines and cuts from rotary tools. In

216

A stylistically similar composition decorates a vessel of the MM II Classical Kamares style.

217

ate vicinity of the Deposit; to a comparison of the associated roundels with those from MM III … 2) At the turn of the century hardly any seals or sealings were known from unmixed con- … than examples from the MM IIB Phaistos sealing deposit, which came to light long after his … locus is not directly linked to the Deposit. Nor is the ceramic from nearer findspots of help in

218

teria for dating purposes. Tablets similar to those from the Deposit are also known from the MM … Vat Room. Nor do the two sealing motifs from the Vat Room find any close parallels among … pressions from the Deposit. Pelon dates the ceramic accompanying the seal to MM IIIB , although … 10) Two impressions (types 136 and 137) from a LM IB context in Kato Zakro show signs … 11) One of the seal impressions from the LM IB Haghia Triada sealing hoard shows Hiero- … 13) In 1930 F. Chapouthier published a deposit of sealed bars from Malia which he consid- … IB. The Hieroglyphic B seals and sealings from LM IB contexts are evidently holdovers. Thus, the

219

nodule. But from their style it is clear that the majority of the designs in the Deposit are of the … No seal motifs from the Hieroglyphic Deposit are more advanced than examples from other … Group 11 derives its name from certain of the constituent seals which bear representations … Simple borings are used to render the hooves. The workmanship ranges from very good to excel-

220

ately striking is the high level of workmanship ranging from very good to superb, the majority of … motifs probably were engraved by an abrasive file. … seals are known from contexts ranging in date from MM II to MM III-LM I. A concentration oc- … Classical Tectonic seals are known in Phaistos, Knossos and from the northeast coast and exam-

221

workmanship from fair to very good; most examples show only good quality workmanship. The … Only two Common Tectonic seals are known from datable archaeological contexts. A ten- … judge from the impressions. … cases, except for Knossos Lb (2:48), one can speak of an attempt to depict a specific action, … wise, other designations are different from those in the original publications.

222

reader is reminded that determining these groups is not an exact science and some other groupings may also … 8 Figures similar in their sinuous form are carved on CMS III lOSb, 310a and 446. The last seal comes from a … the examples are not listed. Although the overwhelming majority of the seals from the Workshop are attribut-

223

27 Cf. also CMS 115 326 from the MM IIB Phaistos sealing deposit. Impressions of Prisms of the kind known

224

50 From Phaistos: Motifs 8:1; 11:9; 44:8. Impressions of the Hieroglyphic Deposit Group have come to light … to come from a MM II context in Knossos. … this context as "Late Mycenaean" arises from directly citing the terminology current in 1902; Cf. Hogarth,

225

peripheral tectonic seals. The following are from datable contexts: MM II-IIIA: CMS 112 54. late MB: CMS

Chapter 8: Conculsions

226

linearly from crude to fine. In the case of seals from contexts which appear to be unmixed, one … complex is Motif 4:2, a representation of a fawn, which is carved on a seal from an EM I-II - … no other method was available for dating seals. Today, seal motifs which were uncovered from

227

ivory seem to fade out. Prisms in soft stones carrying inscriptions predominate, to judge from the … them of the need to devote themselves to dull mass-production." The palaces also had an effect … simpler motifs (cross-hatching, for instance) begin early or are from seals held over from previous … provincial in character compared with those in Phaistos and Knossos. An expression of this pro- … b) The identification of seals from Old Palatial contexts which are held over from earlier … which ones and how many? Designs from original seals which are attributed to style-groups are … ions14, Discoids or Reels15, oval Rings16, Pyramidal Signets17 and Petscbafte18, to judge from the

228

ology of seals from MM I contexts, as opposed to MM II ones. … sions is less clear. On their backsides the sealings from the Phaistos deposit show the impressions … interregional trade.29 According to her, these sealings did not belong to an archive as such but … ings do not represent the remains of an archive in the strict sense of the word. In any case, … produced in palace workshops or from those in the surrounding town. … observation need not detract, however, from the concept of palatial workshops as producers of

229

high quality work. In cases where early Cretan seals differ radically from each other in appearance … family graves. As they contain the remains of several generations, an exact dating for the seals … share the same shapes. Although most of the seals in ivory are known from the Mesara, consid- … tifs appear in an overall rapport pattern, or outline the edge of the field forming an inner and

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port such an early dating. Other dominating seal shapes are certain Conoids, Pyramidoids, Bottles … numerous. The motifs of the Prisms differ significantly from those of the earlier seals. They in- … ment always runs from, simple and crude to complex and fine.

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deposit. Although this deposit was sealed in MM IIB, not all of the motifs are from this period. … geneous that they also date to this period. Some of these designs bring to mind those of an EH … of dogs and owls belong to the same style-group as the hieroglyphic designs from Knossos (cf. … ple motifs survived into MM II and gives an idea of the great distinctions in the artistic aspirations … have argued for an end of the Old Palaces in MM IIB and in MM IIIB. Our main sources of evi- … impression. The emphasis shifted from seal form to seal motif. In MM HI fewer seal shapes are

232

mannered and is usually elastic (cf. 1:48, 51-53; 4:7). An interest in landscape settings, first evi- … There is no need to postulate that these scenes are adapted from other sources such as monu- … these sealings, by Levi , compares designs from the two areas which are atypical or stylistically … Bronze Age seals and Old Palatial ones.

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(Kadmos 17 [1978] 2 n. 9). To judge from the form and composition of the signs, the original seals were … 15 CMS 115 78 (cf. 26:11 and 12), 19-21 (cf. CMS IV 28D), 242-244, i.e. late ones to judge from the style.

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40 E. Hallager, The Mycenaean Palace at Knossos (Stockholm 1977) 66-71, tables 7 and 8, give an idea of the

Select bibliography

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Caskey, John. Crete and the Aegean Islands in the Early Bronze Age, CAH I pt. 2. Cambridge, 1971. … Collon, Dominique. The Seal Impressions from Tell Atchana/Alalakh. Alter Orient und altes Testament 27. Neu-

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------. "Primitive Pietographs and a Prae-Phoenician Script from Crete and the Peloponnese." JHS 14 (1894) … Furtwangler, Adolf. An tike Gemmen. 1-3. Berlin, 1900. … Hughes, H.M.C. and P. Warren. "Two Sealstones from Mochlos." CretChron 17 (1963) 352-356. … Kantor, Helene. "The Relative Chronology of Egypt and its Foreign Correlations Before the Late Bronze Age."

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Platon, Nikolaos. "Chronolgie da la Crete et des Cyclades a l'Age du Bronze." in Bericht iiber den V. Inter-

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Porada, Edith. "Greek Coin Impressions from Ur." Iraq 22 (1960) 228-234. … ------. "Further Seals and Sealings from Lema." Hesperia 38 (1969) 500-521. … Younger, John G. Towards the Chronology of Aegean Glyptic in the Late Bronze Age. Ph.D. dissertation. Uni- … "Two Seals of the Hieroglyphic Deposit Group from Gournia." Temple University Aegean Symposium

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