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Royal Game of Ur. Early Dynastic III Period
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Royal Game of Ur. Early Dynastic III Period
Royal Game of Ur. Early Dynastic III Period. 2600-2400 BC. British Museum. London. England. United Kingdom
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Media ID 14324557
© Thaliastock / Mary Evans
2400 2600 Archaic Counter Counters Dynastic Dynasty First Geometric Geometrical Geometry Iraq Lapis Lazuli Limestone Marquetry Mathematics Maths Mesopotamia Mesopotamian Squares Twenty
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph showcases a beautifully preserved Royal Game of Ur board, hailing from the Early Dynastic III Period of Mesopotamia, around 2600-2400 BC. The board, now a cherished artifact housed in the British Museum in London, England, is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of ancient civilizations. The Royal Game of Ur, also known as the Game of Twenty Squares, is a two-player strategy game that was popular during the ancient Near East. The board, made primarily of limestone with intricate decorative marquetry, features twenty squares arranged in a circular pattern, with each square containing a recess for a small, geometrically shaped counter. The counters, often made of materials like lapis lazuli, were used to move around the board, following specific rules to capture opponents' counters and ultimately reach the center. The game's mathematical complexity and strategic depth have intrigued scholars for centuries. Its presence in the Early Dynastic III Period indicates a strong mathematical and strategic understanding during this age, which laid the foundation for more complex mathematical and scientific developments in later civilizations. The intricate craftsmanship and geometric decoration on this Royal Game of Ur board are awe-inspiring, showcasing the high level of skill and artistry of the ancient Mesopotamians. The board's preservation is a reminder of the enduring legacy of human creativity and innovation, as well as the rich cultural exchange between civilizations across Asia and Europe.
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