Which ancient Mesopotamian item served as the primary tool for merchant 'brand recognition' and product authentication in trade networks spanning from 3500 BCE to 500 BCE?

Before modern branding and logos, ancient civilizations had their own methods of product identification and authentication. In Mesopotamia, merchants developed sophisticated systems to mark their goods and establish trust with consumers. This poll explores how ancient civilizations approached what we now call 'brand recognition' through distinctive markings that identified the source and quality of goods.

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Cylinder seals with unique carved designs that were rolled onto clay to identify the merchant or workshop
Papyrus scrolls with painted symbols that accompanied shipments as early invoices
Metal tokens stamped with royal insignias that guaranteed product quality
Branded pottery marks fired into ceramic vessels during production