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

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LOT 0233