The Hand Palm Symbol on Sasanian Seal Impressions in the Iraqi Museum from the Tell Abu Sha'af Site

Abstract

Human palm is one of the motifs found on seal impressions from the site of Tell Abu Sha'af, which is part of the Hamrin Dam basin in Iraq. Archaeological excavations in 1978 at the structure known as the fortified palace revealed clay pieces that were spherical or oval, featuring two holes in the back. On the front, there was either a single flat seal impression or multiple impressions called "bullu." The total number of these pieces is around 800, varying in shape, size, color, and the motifs depicted. All of them date back to the Sasanian period and are currently housed in the Iraqi Museum.