Early Dynastic Sumerian Field Sale Contract Tablet – Archaic Cuneiform
$ 121.44
Description
Early Dynastic Sumerian Field Sale Contract Tablet – Archaic Cuneiform. This type of tablet belongs to the earliest phase of written communication in human history, when writing systems were still developing from pictographic origins into standardized cuneiform script. Script: Archaic cuneiform (ideographic). Product Description: This replica represents an early economic tablet recording a field sale contract, dating to the Early Dynastic II period (ca. 2700–2600 BCE). Likely originating from Shuruppak in ancient Sumer (southern Mesopotamia), this tablet reflects one of the earliest known uses of writing for administrative and legal purposes. The tablet bears archaic cuneiform signs, written in an early ideographic system where symbols conveyed meaning directly rather than fully phonetic language. The inscription is believed to document a contract for the sale of agricultural land, illustrating how writing was used to formalize agreements and economic transactions. Although the surface of the original object is partially worn or erased, the preserved signs still demonstrate the structured layout typical of early administrative texts. Historical Significance: This type of tablet belongs to the earliest phase of written communication in human history, when writing systems were still developing from pictographic origins into standardized cuneiform script. Economic tablets like this one are crucial for understanding the emergence of organized administration, property ownership, and legal systems in early Mesopotamian society. They show how writing was first used not for literature, but for record-keeping, contracts, and economic control. The probable connection to Shuruppak, one of the oldest Sumerian cities, further enhances its importance, as this site has yielded some of the earliest written documents known. Object Details: Title: Sumerian Economic Tablet – Field Sale Contract Period: Early Dynastic II Date: ca. 2700–2600 BCE Origin: Sumer (possibly Shuruppak), southern Mesopotamia Culture: Sumerian Material: Clay (hand-shaped and hand-painted replica) Dimensions: – Length: approx. 10.8 cm – Width: approx. 10 cm – Thickness: approx. 4.5 cm Script: Archaic cuneiform (ideographic) Classification: Economic / Legal Contract Tablet Note: Please be aware that the tablets and figures we offer are high-quality replicas. Due to the nature of the replication process, slight variations in inscription, form, and color may occur. These subtle differences enhance the uniqueness of each piece and distinguish it from the original artifact. Each piece is hand-shaped from white clay and carefully painted with acrylic paints. We take great care to capture the essence and historical character of ancient artifacts while offering an authentic and meaningful representation. Thank you for your understanding and support! ❤️
