Three Old Babylonian Cuneiform Tablets from Umma

Click to Enlarge

Circa 2100-2000 BC

Size: approximately 28 x 22 cm each <note: check units of measurement>

These small tablets from southern Mesopotamia exhibit clean, unusual text written on only one side. Unlike most cuneiform tablets, which were dried by the sun after being inscribed, these tablets were fired in a kiln. The baked clay suggests they contain information of some importance, such as a record of taxes, expenses, or other commodity. This theory is further supported by the fact that the tablets are from Umma, an administrative center.

Print this Exhibit   |    Download this Exhibit