Early Akkadian Shell Cylinder Seal with Attacking Lion. 2400-2200 B.C. Cylinder with cord and bead handles; accompanied by a copy of an old scholarly note, typed and signed by W.G. Lambert, late Professor of Assyriology, University of Birmingham, 1970-1993, which states: 'Description of Cylinder Seal of Fossil Shell 30 x 16.5 mm. A god standing in the centre succours a domestic animal on either side which is being attack[ed] in turn by a lion. Terminal: two line[s] below vacant description panel. The seal is of late ED III or early Akkad date, c. 2400-2200 B.C. The cutting is marked by a strong use of the drill. The seal is worn, though the design clear. The meaning of the design is based on real life. Lions were a real threat to the herds and flocks of the community, and it was hoped that the depiction of a god coming to the rescue of the domestic creatures would mean that in real life their animals would be similarly saved by divine help.'; accompanied by a museum-quality impression. 16.1 grams total, 8.1-29.57 mm (1/4 - 1 1/8 in.). [No Reserve] UK private collection, acquired 1980-1983. Accompanied by a copy of a scholarly note, typed and signed by Professor Wilfrid George Lambert in August 1990.