A Neo-Sumerian foundation cone from the time of Gudea, c. 2100 BC, the governor of Lagash. Carved in limestone with cuneiform text covering over half of the body, the text explains that this cone was from a building called the House of Fifty Blessings. Reads “To the devine nin-girsu (lord of Girsu); The mighty warrior; Of the devine Enlil; Gudea; The governor; Of Lagash; Made the seemly thing appear; The E-ninnu (the house of 50); The white (or shining); Anzu-Gird; He built for him; Its place he restored.” Foundation cones were driven into the foundations of buildings to identify, date and dedicate a structure. They are usually made of terracotta, but as in this example can be found in other materials, even bronze. H: 4 ¾ in (12.1 cm). A nice example with light mineral deposits and a custom stand. Translation included. Ex Tachner collection with receipts from the Ariadne gallery (1980).

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