Sale 23BP01 | Lot 42

[EARLY WRITING] Mesopotamian terracotta cuneiform tablet, Third Dynasty of Ur.

Catalogue: Rare Books, Autographs & Maps
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[EARLY WRITING] Mesopotamian terracotta cuneiform tablet, Third Dynasty of Ur.

Lot Details

Lot 42
[EARLY WRITING] Mesopotamian terracotta cuneiform tablet, Third Dynasty of Ur.
circa 1973-1964 B.C. Clay tablet, housed in a fitted felt-padded clamshell case. 3 1/8 x 2 inches (8 x 5 cm); inscribed recto and verso in Sumerian cuneiform, from the reign of King Shu-Sin, with several figural outlines front and back, one offering a cup, likely from a cylinder seal. Chipped at corners affecting text, portions on verso scraped with loss.

Apparently a merchant's accounts from the kingdom of Sumer and Akkad, the 6th year of the rein of Shu-Sin. An exceptional attractive example of cuneiform writing, and as early an expression of calligraphy as can reasonably be obtained.


C The Margolis Collection

Estimate: $1,500 - $2,500
Sold for $1,764 (includes buyer's premium)

Additional Notes & Condition Report

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Estimate: $1,500 - $2,500
Sold for $1,764 (includes buyer's premium)
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Catalogue Info

Rare Books, Autographs & Maps

Thu, May 11, 2023 at 10am EDT
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