Parthian Seals: A Review of Artistic Style and Functional Role

Seals can help to identify the unknown aspects a culture. Parthian seals and bullaes not only have played an important role in business in the community، but also they are important to identify the art and culture of this period. Except a few reports about Parthian site and a few works that can be found in collections and museums little has been written with regard to the seals of this period. Therefore، the aim of the present study is the introduction of Parthian seals and Bullae، the designs carved on them and understanding their functional role. The results show that make a distinction between the bullaes and seals of Seleucid and those of Parthian periods is often difficult. Parthian seals are inspired by the traditions of Achaemenid، Greece، Central Asia animals and the local styles. Common motifs of the seals are human bust، winged mythical creatures، full-length human، horseman and deer.