Archaeologists Find 4,400-Year-Old Jade Seal in Western Türkiye

A rare jade cylinder seal, estimated to be 4,400 years old, has been uncovered at Seyitomer Mound in Kutahya, western Türkiye. The discovery, led by Dr. Sevgi Gurdal of the Kutahya Museum, dates back to the Early Bronze Age II and is believed to be the oldest of its kind in the region.

Crafted from jade, the seal offers valuable insights into ancient trade routes and cultural exchanges. The jade likely originated from the Harmancik area, located between Kutahya and Bursa, suggesting significant trade links between ancient Anatolian societies and broader networks.

Cylinder seals, first developed in Mesopotamia around 4000 BCE, gradually spread to Anatolia. This discovery enriches understanding of early commercial and cultural interactions in the region.

The Seyitomer Mound excavation continues to reveal vital pieces of history, with the jade seal representing a significant breakthrough in understanding Bronze Age Anatolian trade and artistry