Cuneiform Clay Cones

Writing in ancient Mesopotamia evolved in response to a need for accurate record keeping. Once the idea that sounds and ideas could be communicated by a series of consistent symbols was understood, the script developed and was quickly pressed into practical service. Cuneiform script evolved directly from picture drawings becoming more and more stylized until a standard script developed. The first known cuneiform texts are from the ancient city of Uruk, in southern Iraq and date from about 3,000 BC. They reveal a complex business structure already in operation.

Side by side with the economic texts were dedication texts. The practice of consecrating the foundations of new buildings seems to have started almost as early as building itself.

In order to insure that the sanctuaries of the various gods would last forever, they were built on sacred ground and the foundations were laid with great ceremony. Special deposit objects were carefully placed in the foundations and walls.

Foundation deposits took many forms and inscribed clay cone and nails were often placed in the corners, and under entrance halls. The inscriptions usually named the king and the deity to whom the sanctuary was being dedicated.

FOR EXAMPLE:

TO MARDUK, HIS LORD, NEBUCHADEZZAR, THE KING OF BABYLON, FOR HIS LIFE, HE PRESENTED IT.

Sadigh Gallery has acquired a collection of ancient cuneiform clay cones dating from 2,000 – 1,000 BC each with its own translation. These cones are made of terra cotta and stand from 4 to 6 inches tall. Each one is mounted on a custom made base.

View our collection of Foundation cones here:

http://www.sadighgallery.com/search.asp?keyword=foundation cones&sortby=0&catid=34