Mesopotamian Stone Scale Weight "Sleeping Duck"

**First Time At Auction**

Ancient Near East, Mesopotamia, Sumer, ca. 2000 to 700 BCE. A carved stone "sleeping" duck effigy that was used as a weight, resting with the long neck turned with head folded over its back. Duck weights were used to check the accuracy of payment and would be placed on pan scales, their weight corresponded to local standardized units used for business transactions known as talents and mina. While some weights were merely polished stones, the duck form was a popular style that was both functional and aesthetically appealing, suggesting that the people who used them valued beauty in everyday objects! Size: 3.25" L x 2" W x 1.5" H (8.3 cm x 5.1 cm x 3.8 cm)

Provenance: East Coast collection, New York Gallery, New York City, New York, USA, acquired before 2010

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#144177
Condition Report: Loss to body and losses to head with abrasions and surface pitting. Scattered earthen and mineral deposits.