An Iron Age IIB–C Hebrew Stamp Seal with Apotropaic and Prophylactic Properties from the Southwestern Corner of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem

An Iron Age Hebrew iconic stamp seal was uncovered near the southwestern corner of the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. The seal, made of black stone, depicts a winged genie and a personal name, Yeho'ezer son of Hosha'yahu. This is the first depiction of the winged genie iconography in the region found in an archaeological excavation. Influenced by Neo-Assyrian art, the seal was created in Jerusalem by a local artist for Hosha'yahu, a member of the Judean elite, during the Assyrian Century. Later on, the seal was inherited by his son, Yeho'ezer. In addition to being used as a stamp, the item was a potent apotropaic and prophylactic amulet.