Victoria AdolphusA groundbreaking study by the University of Bologna uncovers the connection between ancient Mesopotamian cylinder seals and the development of proto-cuneiform writing around 3000 BCE.
Key Findings
- Cylinder seals shaped writing: Designs imprinted by seals on clay tablets influenced proto-cuneiform signs.
- Prehistoric imagery evolved: Late prehistoric images became part of one of the earliest writing systems.
- Direct correlations identified: Researchers linked specific seal images to proto-cuneiform signs.
The Study
Researchers analyzed cylinder seals from Mesopotamia, dating back around 6,000 years, and compared their designs to proto-cuneiform signs. The study, published in Antiquity, reveals a direct link between seal imagery and writing development.
Expert Insights
“The invention of writing marks the transition between prehistory and history,” says Silvia Ferrara, lead researcher. “Our findings bridge this divide, illustrating how prehistoric images became part of the earliest writing systems.”
Significance
- New perspectives on writing origins: Study sheds light on symbolic and writing system evolution.
- Deciphering unknown signs: Research may aid in understanding undeciphered proto-cuneiform signs.
- Bridging prehistory and history: Findings illuminate the cognitive leap from pre-writing symbolism to writing.
Reference
Kelley, K., Cartolano, M., & Ferrara, S. (2024). Seals and signs: Tracing the origins of writing in ancient South-west Asia. Antiquity. DOI: 10.15184/aqy.2024.165
