Explain The Harappan seals.

The Harappan seals are a significant archaeological discovery from the ancient Indus Valley Civilization (also known as the Harappan Civilization), which thrived in the Bronze Age (around 3300 BCE to 1300 BCE) in the region of present-day Pakistan and northwest India. These seals provide valuable insights into the civilization's culture, trade networks, and administrative practices.

The Harappan seals are small, square-shaped artifacts made primarily of steatite (a type of soft stone) and occasionally of other materials like terracotta or faience. They typically feature intricate designs and inscriptions engraved using a script known as the Indus script, which remains undeciphered to this day. The seals often depict stylized animals such as bulls, elephants, tigers, and unicorns, as well as human figures engaged in various activities like rituals or possibly administrative functions.

These seals were likely used for multiple purposes within the Harappan society. They may have served as markers of ownership or identity, possibly used to mark goods or containers for trade. The presence of these seals at various Harappan sites across the civilization's territory suggests a standardized system of administration or trade. Some seals also depict scenes of ritualistic or religious significance, indicating the importance of these activities in Harappan life.

The discovery of Harappan seals has contributed significantly to our understanding of the Indus Valley Civilization. While many aspects of their meaning and usage remain elusive due to the undeciphered script and limited contextual information, these seals represent an essential element of the civilization's material culture and highlight the sophistication and organization of Harappan society.