Year: 2012

Ancient Jewish “kosher stamp” Uncovered

Excavations just east of the Israeli city of Akko have unearthed a rare ceramic stamp more than 1.500 years old. The stamp, it is believed, was used by a Jewish baker named “Launtius,” to certify his goods as kosher to potential customers. The stamp is engraved with an image of the iconic seven branched menorah and also contains lettering in Hebrew and Greek. Please read more about this curious discovery from MSNBC News by clicking here.

Ancient African Sculptures

I hope this this post finds all of our readers well and beginning a great start to 2012! If you are interested in ancient art–especially ancient African art–you should check out this news article from NewScientist. Drs. Nicole Rupp and Peter Breunig of the Goethe University Frankfurt have uncovered startling “terracotta heads” in Central Nigeria. Over 2.000 years old, these sculptures demonstrate the artistic creativity and sophistication of the Nok people. It is now widely believed that the Nok were the first Africans to smelt iron. Please read more about this unique discovery by clicking here.