Object Description
A well-preserved Sumerian clay foundation nail dedicated to King Gudea. The cone-shaped piece with a projecting top is inscribed with cuneiform writing arranged in vertical tables. Such inscriptions were made by impressing a sharpened reed or stick into the still-wet clay just before the firing process. The text speaks of Gudea, Ensi of Lagash, building the Eninnu temple for the god Ninįirsu. Such votive cones were buried in the walls and beneath the floors of important buildings during construction to sanctify the site and to create a historical memory of the ruler and his achievements.
Date: Circa 2144-2124 BC