A small clay writing tablet dating to the Old Babylonian period. The piece displays cuneiform inscriptions on both the obverse and reverse, as well as some of the sides; however some of the script has faded due to age. General signs of deterioration to the surface consistent with age. Cuneiform writing was one of the earliest forms of writing, developed in the ancient lands of Mesopotamia. Babylonian society was a complex social structure and had a need, as we do today, to record such things as temple acquisitions, land transactions, financial loans, as well as their epic stories and personal letters. They would write these documents and letters on a wet clay tablet, which was then dried. Dimensions: L 2.8cm x W 2.7cm Provenance: Ex Collection of a deceased gentleman by descent to his family, London and Geneva, collection acquired 1970-1990.