What is it about?
The focus is on reassessing the problem of the function of glyptic imagery and on testing the working hypothesis that differences in the subject matter of the seal devices used to produce the seal impressions may have reflected the hierarchical status of the Pylian seal-owners. On the basis of context, typology and iconography it is suggested that the heirloom signet rings impressed upon the direct object sealings and the combination nodules from the Archives Complex as well as upon a set of hanging nodules from the Northeastern Building designated offices within the Pylian administrative system. In the case of the open irregular string nodules from the Northeastern Building, the Wine Magazine and the Southwestern Building, it is argued that they mainly reflect a system of receipts.
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Why is it important?
The example of a gold Mycenaean ring impression reproducing key palatial iconography is used to demonstrate that the seal devices from Pylos should be interpreted as visual symbols that acquired their meaning through convention.
Perspectives
It is argued that one of the mechanisms through which the rings and the seals would have been differentiated and associated with individual offices or other institutions was possibly the way specific symbols were embedded within the composition of image. This has important bearings, especially after the recent discovery of the 'Pylos Combat Agate" and of the four signet rings with the complex iconography in the so-called "Griffin Warrior tomb" at Pylos.
Dr GEORGIA FLOUDA
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This page is a summary of: AGENCY MATTERS: SEAL-USERS IN PYLIAN ADMINISTRATION, Oxford Journal of Archaeology, February 2010, Wiley,
DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-0092.2009.00340.x.
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