A measuring weight carved from a piece of hematite to form the shape of a stylised recumbent duck with its head turned across its back as if sleeping.

The Mesopotamians used sets of standard weights in conducting business and set stiff penalities for those who used false weights. The weights themselves were usually made of a very hard stone like hematite. A simple barrel shape was the most common form, but weights such as this example in the form of a duck, with its neck and head resting along its back, were also prevalent.
 

Condition: Intact and in very good condition overall, a very lovely example.

Dimensions: Length:  7/8 inch (2.3 cm)   Weight:  3.3 grams

Provenance: Private Texas collection acquired in the 1960's