One of the responsibilities of the king was to give the gods offerings and keep their homes (temples) in good condition.
When a building was repaired the king would often leave his name carved on objects buried in the foundations or stamped on the bricks.

A brick stamped with the titles of King Ur-Nammu. (A dog walked across the damp brick).
|
In this way he hoped the gods would bless him and his kingdom.
more...
|