Brick

Date626-539 BC

Mediummudbrick

DimensionsObject/Work: 82 x 185 x 175 mm

ClassificationsArchitecture

Terms

Object numberC00351

DescriptionFragment of mud brick from Babylon inscribed with cuneiform. This is a small oblong section, partly recessed in a corner at the edge. It has a cracked and scratched upper surface.

The brick is only a quarter of the original. It was probably sawn in pieces for sale in Europe. The inscription in the centre was made by a stamp which describes the place, building project and Babylonian ruler the brick was manufactured for.
It would also usually include a dedication to a deity. A Captain Johnson brought this and other pieces over from Iraq for the East India House Museum and Henry Syer Cuming acquired it from a Mrs Belasize. How she came to have it is not yet known.

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