Deciphering the Symbols: A Comprehensive Study of Iconography and Epigraphy of Indus Seals

Abstract

Inscribed seals are among the most identifiable and distinctive artifacts of the Harappan or Indus Civilization (c. 2600-1900 BCE), which is recognized as one of the earliest urban civilizations in the world and the first significant emergence in the South Asian subcontinent. This study explores the complex relationship between epigraphy and iconography on Indus seals, revealing the deep insights contained within these ancient relics. Indus seals employed specific documents and linguistic structures to communicate messages. The objective is to clarify the linguistic, cultural, and societal aspects of the Indus Valley Civilization by carefully examining the script and symbols found on these seals. This interdisciplinary approach seeks to uncover regional and temporal patterns that introduce new dimensions regarding an ancient civilization. The research goes beyond simple linguistic analysis by looking at the interdependent relationship between iconographic imagery and script, offering a holistic understanding of the communicative and symbolic roles of Indus seals. Additionally, it investigates the possible social, economic, and ritualistic functions of the seals by interpreting the inscriptions for insights into ownership, trade, and religious customs. This study addresses these topics through a range of formal and statistical analysis methods applied to a collection of published engraved Indus seals. The findings illustrate evidence of variations in patterns of Indus seals across different times and locations. Collectively, this research offers fresh perspectives on the organizational dynamics of the Indus Civilization.