Sumerian / Mesopotamia duck weights x 2 with cuneiform writing & Lioness carving

Sumerian duck weights

On offer here are a pair of well made replicas of ancient Sumerian duck weights. Made of a limestone and quartzite composition stone, they have been given an aged slate black patina with a light polish.

The larger symmetrical example features the sweeping neck of the duck curling over a stylized egg like shape. It has an inscription on the left hand side in cuneiform writing denoting the weight.

Dimensions :-

Length of larger duck - 9.5 cm / 3-3/4 inches

Length of smaller duck - 7 cm / 2-3/4 inches


The smaller duck weight replica features a lioness carved on one side accompanied by cuneiform writing signifying it's weight and is a rare example of the duck weight type.


Background information

Duck weights were used in all manner of Mesopotamian trade that required weights and measures to facilitate a fair and amicable transaction. Grain, gold, copper, spices and other produce would be calculated by weight using duck and lion shaped weights.
Other varieties of Sumerian duck weights are in the current range and are worth a look. If not on show please ask for a photo.

Sumerian duck weights were in use as early as 2000 B.C.E and were made in various sizes and materials. They were placed on pan scales when dealing in commodities such as grain, metals and a workmans wage.
Duck weights could also be used to check the accuracy of payment when exchanging valuables like land or paying taxes.

Duck weights corresponded to standardised units : talents and mina. One talent equals sixty mina. These units implemented how much of one commodity was equivalent to an amount of another.
The mina can be broken down into smaller measures as well, known as the shekel. The words, 'talent' and 'shekel', were put to use in other civilisations as words meaning money. In metric weights, the standardised talent is about 30 kilgrams, and a standardised mina roughly 500 grams. broken down into smaller measures as well, known as the shekel. The words, 'talent' and 'shekel', were put to use in other civilisations as words meaning money. In metric weights, the standardised talent is about 30 kilograms, and a standardised mina roughly 500 grams.