July 1, 2025
KU 011: 3D model of Old Akkadian clay tablet
This publication contains a replica of a historical clay tablet of the special collections of the VU University Library. The original tablet is an Old-Akkadian letter skillfully and carefully inscribed upon a small circular tablet. The author of the text, Babi, is addressing a woman (possibly his wife), Šartum, with concern for her household discontent. She has been fighting with a man (possibly her son), Ibbi-ilum. Babi wrote this letter imploring them to resolve their conflict and to request sesame oil be sent to him. Period: Old Akkadian (c. 23th-22th centuries BCE). Date: ca. 2250 BCE. Provenance: possibly Kish region. Language: Akkadian. Personal names: Babi, Šartum, Ibbi-ilum. Material: clay. Dimensions: 2,3 x 2,4 x 0,8 cm. Weight: 5,70 g.