Sigillography

Sigillography is the study of seals used historically to authenticate documents and signify authority. It involves analyzing the design, material, and inscription of seals—often made of wax, metal, or clay—to understand their origin, function, and significance. This field helps historians verify the authenticity of documents, trace relationships between individuals or institutions, and learn about cultural and political history through seal symbols and craftsmanship. It combines aspects of art, archaeology, and history to provide insights into how people in the past secured and validated their communications and agreements.