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Ur (Fara-Ur I period) : The so-called "Standard of Ur"

Date

Authors

Strommenger, Eva
Photographer: Arthur Llewellyn Basham

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Volume Title

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Abstract

Description

The sides slope outwards towards the bottom, so not likely to be a harp or lyre sounding-box. The "Peace Side" lower register shows men with tufts of hair standing straight up & dressed in skirts with split or smooth edges leading onagers or carrying burdens (All the burden carriers are bald), & perhaps they are the defeated group from "War Side" bringing tribute. Two similar figures appear as a continuation in the left part of the middle register, whilst people in smooth skirts with tufted edges bring animals & fish to the banquet. This mosaic depicts a particular historical event and all those involved are carefully characterized, but difficult to interpret without inscription. -- A wooden box decorated with mosaic from the Royal Cemetery at Ur, "Royal Tomb", Meskalamdu(g) phase (c. 2685-2645 BC), mosaics of shell, red limestone and lapis lazuli inlaid in bitumen, 20.3 x 48.3 cm (British Museum).

Citation

Source

Type

Archives Series

Date created

1964

Access Statement

License Rights

This image is provided for research purposes only and must not be reproduced without the prior permission of the Archives Program, Australian National University.

DOI

Restricted until

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