Object Details
Description
This clay tablet from ancient Mesopotamia features a script called cuneiform. The tablets record business transactions and trade in items such as sheep, goats, oxhide, and barley. Tablets typically had two layers: an outer covering and inner plate. Sealing the plate within the covering protected it from alteration. If there was a dispute over the accuracy of the information on the outer layer, the covering would be cracked open and the inner plate would be read to settle the matter.
Credit Line
Chase Manhattan Bank
date made
ca 2004 - 1900 BCE
associated date
2100 BCE
ID Number
NU.79.112.OC12
accession number
1979.1263
catalog number
79.112.OC12
Object Name
Clay Tablet
tablet
Other Terms
Clay Tablet; Asia; Ancient Babylonia
Physical Description
mineral aggregate, clay (overall material)
light brown (overall color)
gray (overall color)
formed in mold and inscribed (overall production method/technique)
Measurements
overall: 40.7 mm x 35.2 mm x 17 mm; 1 19/32 in x 1 3/8 in x 21/32 in
place made
Iraq: Bābil, Babylon
associated place
Iraq: Bābil, Babylon
Iraq: Sumerian
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Work and Industry: National Numismatic Collection
Exhibition
Value of Money
Exhibition Location
National Museum of American History
Data Source
National Museum of American History
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nmah_1069009