The bullae was used as a voucher originally attached to strings that once wrapped a document or letter. Then it was often broken and discarded, once the document was opened. The impression of a seal, preserved on a bullae suggest that the seal functioned as validation of documents,and as a guarantee of exchanged goods and services both in an administrative context and in private society. Private seals and impressions, distinguished by a single motif sometimes accompanied by an inscription, or an iconographic pattern, reflects the cultural and religious traditions of ancient Israel. This Lead bullae, due to the symbol on it, clearly was used by a high priest, or one of the leaders of the wars against Rome. - (FJ.0438)Origin: Israel Circa: 100 BC to 100 AD Collection: Biblical Style: Roman Period Medium: Lead

Antiquities
Ancient Near East