In a groundbreaking study, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yücel Yazgın from the Near East University has unveiled the intricate connections between ancient civilizations through the examination of cylinder seals used in Cyprus. Titled "Reflections of Levant and Mesopotamian Gods and Goddesses on Cyprus Cylinder Seals," his research, recently published in the Amazonia Investiga Journal, sheds light on the remarkable cross-cultural influences embedded in these seals.
Cylinder seals, artifacts used for a limited time and in specific regions, have been discovered to bear traces of Sumerian, Assyrian, Akkadian, Hittite, Babylonian, and Kassite civilizations. Dr. Yazgın's analysis of 214 cylinder seals revealed that an astounding 79 percent of the figures depicted on these seals were representations of Levant and Mesopotamian gods and goddesses. This finding emphasizes the profound impact of ancient cultures on the artistic expressions and societal norms of the time.
Moreover, the study explores the sustainability aspect of these ancient artifacts. Cylinder seals, historically utilized to safeguard stored goods from theft or tampering, offer insights into the social and commercial life of the period. Dr. Yazgın emphasizes the relevance of these findings to understanding the cultural dynamics and communication patterns that transcended geographical boundaries.
"Examining the cylinder seals used in Cyprus, we observe that the god and goddess figures from civilizations like Sumerian, Assyrian, Akkadian, Hittite, Babylonian, and Kassite are frequently featured. This revelation underscores the profound influence of ancient cultures, suggesting a form of communication that transcended borders," explains Dr. Yazgın.
This research not only deepens our understanding of ancient civilizations but also highlights the enduring sustainability of practices aimed at securing valuable assets—a concept resonant even in today's world. The study invites reflection on how cultural exchanges in the past can inform modern perspectives on sustainability and cross-cultural communication.
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