Sumerian / Mesopotamia duck weight with cuneiform writing Shulgi son of Ur Namu
Sumerian duck weight
Dimensions : -
Height - 10 cm / 6-1/4 inches
Width - 10.5cm / 4-1/4 inches
Length - 16 cm / 6-1/4 inches
On offer here is a well made replica of an ancient Sumerian duck weight. Made of a limestone and quartzite composition stone it has been given an aged black patina with a light polish.
This sleek example features the sweeping neck of the duck curling over the stylized shape of the duck's body. It has an inscription on one side carved in cuneiform writing that mentions 'Shulgi - son of Ur Nammu' .
The moon god Nanna is represented by a subsidiary motif of the crescent moon on the opposite flank.
Background information
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 workman's 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 standardized 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 standardized talent is about 30 kilograms, and a standardized mina roughly 500 grams.
The duck weight on offer is approximately 1 kilogram / 2.2 pounds.
*As each item is handmade, slight colour variations may occur.
Shipping from Australia
Processing time
3-5 business days
Estimated shipping times
- North America : 1 - 3 weeks
- Europe : 1 - 3 weeks
- Australia, New Zealand and Oceania : 1 - 2 weeks
- Asia Pacific : 1 - 3 weeks
- Latin America and the Caribbean : 1 - 3 weeks
- North Africa and the Middle East : 1 - 3 weeks
- Sub-Saharan Africa : 1 - 3 weeks
I'll do my best to meet these shipping estimates, but can't guarantee them. Actual delivery time will depend on the shipping method you choose.
Customs and import taxes
Buyers are responsible for any customs and import taxes that may apply. I'm not responsible for delays due to customs.
Payment Options
Returns & Exchanges
I gladly accept returns and cancellations
Just contact me within: 5 days of delivery
Ship items back to me within: 14 days of delivery
Conditions of return
Buyers are responsible for return shipping costs. If the item is not returned in its original condition, the buyer is responsible for any loss in value.