Seal (emblem)

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For other uses, see Seal (disambiguation).

A seal is an emblem used to authenticate documents, often in the form of a stamp or an impression made on wax, paper, or other materials. Seals have been used for centuries to signify the authenticity and integrity of documents, and they continue to be used in various forms today.

History

Seals have a long history, dating back to ancient civilizations such as Ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Ancient China. In these cultures, seals were often made from materials like stone, metal, or clay and were used to mark ownership, authority, and authenticity.

Ancient Egypt

In Ancient Egypt, seals were commonly used by officials and royalty. The seals often featured hieroglyphs and were used to secure tombs, mark property, and authenticate documents.

Mesopotamia

In Mesopotamia, cylinder seals were prevalent. These cylindrical objects were engraved with intricate designs and rolled over clay tablets to create an impression. They were used for administrative and commercial purposes.

Ancient China

In Ancient China, seals were known as "chops" and were used by emperors, officials, and scholars. These seals were typically made from jade, ivory, or metal and were used to authenticate documents and artworks.

Types of Seals

Seals can be categorized into several types based on their form and function:

Stamp Seals

Stamp seals are flat objects with an engraved design that is pressed onto a surface to create an impression. These are commonly used for official documents and letters.

Cylinder Seals

Cylinder seals are cylindrical objects with an engraved design that is rolled over a surface to create a continuous impression. These were commonly used in ancient Mesopotamia.

Signet Rings

Signet rings are rings with an engraved seal that can be used to stamp an impression. These were often used by nobility and officials to sign documents.

Wax Seals

Wax seals involve melting wax and pressing a seal into it to create an impression. These were commonly used in medieval Europe to secure letters and documents.

Modern Use

Today, seals are still used in various forms, including rubber stamps, embossed seals, and digital seals. They are used by governments, corporations, and individuals to authenticate documents and signify approval.

Related Pages

• Stamp (philately)
• Signet ring
• Wax seal
• Authentication
• Document