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Queen's Lyre

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description Queen's Lyre Overview

This ancient lyre, known as the Queen’s Lyre, originates from the Sumerian city of Ur in modern-day Iraq. Crafted around 2600 BC, it was discovered within the tomb of Queen Puabi, a prominent figure in Mesopotamian society. The instrument is notable for its distinctive bull's head design and provides valuable insight into the music, craftsmanship, and funerary practices of the ancient Sumerians. Archaeologists and historians study this relic to understand early civilizations and their artistic traditions.

help Queen's Lyre FAQ

Where is the Queen's Lyre displayed today?

The Queen's Lyre is housed at the British Museum in London, where it has been part of the Mesopotamian collection since its excavation. It was one of several lyres discovered in the Royal Cemetery of Ur by a team led by Sir Leonard Woolley.

Whose tomb was the Queen's Lyre found in?

The Queen's Lyre was found in the tomb designated PG 800 at Ur, which Woolley attributed to Queen Puabi. The tomb dates to approximately 2600 BC and contained rich grave goods including jewelry, headdresses, and musical instruments.

What does the bull's head on the Queen's Lyre represent?

The bull-headed decoration on the lyre is believed to represent a divine or sacred bull, a recurring motif in ancient Mesopotamian religion associated with strength and royalty. The head was crafted from gold sheet over a wooden core with lapis lazuli inlays for the eyes and beard.

Who excavated the Queen's Lyre and when?

The lyre was excavated by the British archaeologist Sir Leonard Woolley during his excavations at Ur, which took place between 1922 and 1934 under the joint sponsorship of the British Museum and the University of Pennsylvania. The Royal Cemetery discoveries were among the most celebrated finds of that campaign.

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