Cuneiform Foundation Cone dating to the Reign of Ishme-Dagan

Culture: Southern Mesopotamia

Period: 1953-1935 B.C.

Material: Clay

Dimensions: 13.2 cm long

Price: Sold

Ref: 6517

Provenance: French private collection, 1980s. Thence with Piasa auction in Paris on 25 November 1996, lot 126.

Condition: Intact and with minimal wear, the inscription is wonderfully preserved.

Description: Foundation cone of light clay with a flat base on the broadside and a rounded tip on the other side. The inscription, covering around three quarters of the cone originates from Ishme-Dagan, the fourth king of I. Dynasty of Isin. He ruled over southern Mesopotamia. This foundation cone certifies that under his reign the city walls of Isin were fortified. The translation of the inscription reads: “When Ishme-Dagan, the strong man, the King of four regions, abolished the tribute of Nippur and freed his soldiers from duty, he built the great rampart of Isin. The name of this rampart is: "Ishme-Dagan is thanks to Enlil the arm of the great An”. Mounted.