Iconography of bull on Sassanid seals (with introducing three seals from Bu-Ali Museum in Hamedan)

Seals are important sources in the analysis of the history of each era. Methodological study of these works plays an important role in clarifying the political, social and economic issues of different historical periods. The motifs on the seals show the belief and attitude of the people of that time to the world around them. In addition to conveying aspects of visual beauty to the viewer, these motifs also convey the thoughts of its creators. Animal motifs have been more efficient and of great interest to Sassanid artists. Bull, as the fifth creature of Ohrmazd, from an economic, mythological and religious point of view, was the center of attention of Sassanid seal artists and owners. In this research, the authors, after taking a brief look at the role of the bull in the mythology and ancient texts of Iran, have examined it on Sassanid seals, and also introduced three inscribed seals with the motif of bulls from Bu- Ali Sina Museum which have been read by the authors of this article for the first time. At the end, the issue of possession and ownership of these seals and the concept of the inscriptions of the three seals have been examined. This article is prepared in a documentary way based on library studies and field research.