Mesopotamian Terracotta Foundation Nail for Ningirsu, the Strong Hero of Enlil His King, Gudea

3RD-2ND MILLENNIUM B.C.

3 5/8 in. (338 grams, 92 mm).

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

'dnin-gir -su
ur-saĝ-kal-ga-
den-lil -la
lugal-a-ni
gu -de -a ensi
ŠIR.BUR.LAki-ke
nig -du -e pa mu-na-e
e -ninnu AN.IM.DUGUD-babbar -ra-ni mu-na-du
ki-bi mu-na-gi',

reading: 'Ningirsu, the strong hero of Enlil his king, Gudea, ruler of Lagaš, made ideal values shine and built Eninnu, his white eagle, and restored it'.

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.

CONDITION

VETTING:

TimeLine Auctions follows a 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.

LOT 0232