Which ancient civilization first widely used merchant seals as a form of brand identity, with unique symbols that guaranteed product authenticity and origin?

Before modern logos and marketing campaigns, ancient civilizations developed sophisticated methods to distinguish their goods in bustling marketplaces. Artisans, merchants, and traders used unique markings, seals, and symbols that functioned remarkably like today's brand identities. This trivia explores how ancient civilizations approached product differentiation and commercial recognition in ways that would lay the groundwork for modern brand strategy.

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Mesopotamia (specifically Sumerian merchants, circa 3000 BCE)
Ancient Egypt (during the New Kingdom period, circa 1550-1070 BCE)
Indus Valley Civilization (during its urban phase, circa 2600-1900 BCE)
Ancient China (during the Shang Dynasty, circa 1600-1046 BCE)