Sumerian Daily Life Set

This Sumerian Daily Life Set is a captivating collection of replica items that provide an immersive look into the daily activities, beliefs, and craftsmanship of the ancient Sumerians—one of the earliest and most influential civilisations in human history. Known for their advances in writing, law, and urbanisation, the Sumerians laid many of the foundations for later cultures in the ancient Near East. This set will deepen students’ understanding of life in ancient Mesopotamia and give them an opportunity to engage with tangible representations of the items that were part of everyday Sumerian life.

The Sumerian Daily Life Set Includes:

• Writing Tablet: This replica clay tablet showcases cuneiform script, the world's first known system of writing. Sumerians used stylus tools to inscribe records, laws, and literature on clay. These tablets were used for everything from administrative records to educational purposes and the recording of religious texts.
• 3 x Pottery: The set includes three pieces of Sumerian-style pottery, including a small jug, bowl, and storage jar. Pottery was a vital part of everyday life in Sumer, used for storing food, water, and offerings to the gods. These pieces replicate the functional and decorative pottery produced by Sumerian artisans, often decorated with intricate geometric patterns or motifs.
• Pair of Temple Plaques: These decorative relief plaques would have been used in Sumerian temples as part of religious rituals. Typically made of clay, they often depicted gods, mythological scenes, or symbolic motifs. Temples were the heart of Sumerian cities, and these plaques offer a glimpse into their religious practices and beliefs.
• Fertility Figure: A small figurine believed to represent a fertility goddess or a symbolic offering to encourage prosperity and fertility in Sumerian society. Such figures are often associated with Sumerian religion, highlighting the significance of fertility, agriculture, and the natural world to this ancient civilization.
• 4 x Coins: While the Sumerians themselves didn't have coinage in the way we think of it today, these replicas represent the use of precious metals and commodities as currency in trade. The Sumerians relied on a system of barter and trade, but the concept of money in various forms was developing across the ancient world during their time. These coins, though not historically accurate to Sumer's early periods, reflect the evolving economic systems that later arose in the region.

Educational Benefits:

• Cultural Exploration: This set allows students to explore the daily life, religious practices, and technological advancements of one of the first great civilisations. From the invention of writing to the creation of monumental architecture, the Sumerians contributed extensively to world history.
• Hands-On Learning: The tactile nature of the replicas provides a sensory connection to the past. By physically handling the items, students can better appreciate how these objects were used in everyday life, from writing documents to storing food or engaging in religious rites.
• Cross-Curricular Connections: This set can be integrated into lessons on history, art, and social studies. It highlights the intersection between craftsmanship, religion, and daily life, and provides a starting point for discussions on early urbanisation, economics, and cultural development.
• Enhancing Storytelling: The inclusion of items like the temple plaques and fertility figure can inspire creative storytelling. Students can use the artefacts to reimagine ancient Sumerian myths and everyday stories, exploring what these items might have represented to the people who used them.

Ideal For:

• History Lessons: This set is perfect for studying ancient Mesopotamian cultures, particularly the Sumerians, and their contributions to the development of writing, urban living, and religious beliefs.
• Interactive Projects: Students can use these items in history projects or presentations, bringing ancient Sumerian culture to life in a tactile way.
• Classroom Displays: These artefacts make an engaging addition to history classrooms or museums, helping students visualise and better understand the physical aspects of Sumerian life.
• Cultural Exploration: Ideal for museum exhibits, cultural studies, or archaeological exploration, providing a more immersive experience for learners of all ages.

Please Note: Contents May Vary: The specific designs of the pottery and temple plaques may vary slightly from box to box, but each set will contain a carefully chosen selection of replicas that reflect authentic Sumerian craftsmanship and everyday life.

The Sumerian Daily Life Set offers a rich and engaging way for students to connect with the ancient world, exploring one of humanity’s earliest civilisations through its everyday artefacts and cultural practices. It provides valuable historical insight and is a perfect resource for educational settings, encouraging both learning and creativity.