gems, glyptic, engraved gems, agate, cameo, intaglio

The study examines the development of the glyptic imagery of cylinder seals and sealings in late Predynastic Egypt and its periphery in light of recent discoveries made at the Upper Egyptian Cemetery U at Abydos. Seals and sealings from Lower Nubia and the southern Palestinian site of ‘En Besor are examined to trace the development of the Predynastic Egyptian glyptic style from the Naqada IId period to the beginning of the First Dynasty. This development is used to suggest a sequence for other Predynastic art works without provenance. The social and political implications of early Egyptian cylinder sea use are also examined using models established in the study of Mesopotamian seal use and sealing practices.