Choose Category:

Home > Auctions > Starting 5th March 2024 > Mesopotamian Cuneiform Foundation Nail

Print page | Email lot to a friend

Back to previous page


Use mousewheel to zoom in and out, click to enlarge
Gallery loading...

LOT 0233

Sold for (Inc. bp): £442

MESOPOTAMIAN CUNEIFORM FOUNDATION NAIL
3RD-2ND MILLENNIUM B.C.
3 3/4 in. (322 grams, 96 mm).

Conical foundation nail fragment with broad domed top, columns of cuneiform text to the shank.

PROVENANCE:
Acquired in London in 1995.
European private collection.

LITERATURE:
Cf. similar item in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, under accession no.45.90, for type.

FOOTNOTES:
Temple nails or cones were placed in the foundations of newly-built temples. Their form imitates nails or pegs and they bear inscriptions stating the name of the reigning king and regnal year, and the god(s) to whom the temple was dedicated.

CONDITION
VETTING:
TimeLine Auctions follows a rigorous vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process

AUCTIONS:
TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.