The resumption of systematic excavations in Iraq draws attention to basic questions in the study of the Ancient Near East. How do archaeological contexts contribute to the interpretation of clay tablets and other cuneiform artefacts, as well as to the analysis of ancient architectural remains? To what extent can assemblages of inscribed objects provide evidence of ancient collections, archives, or libraries? In which way do records from earlier excavations depend on their respective research strategies?
CAI 2 brings together fifteen contributions from experts in Cuneiform Philology (Assyriology) and Ancient Near Eastern Archaeology. The articles pertain to different sites in Iraq, including Kemune, Nineveh, Nimrud, Assur in Assyria, and Sippar, Babylon, Nippur, Isin, Umma, Girsu, Uruk, and Ur in Babylonia. The authors present results from ongoing research projects and address methodological issues, terminologies, and material aspects regarding the production, use, and preservation of cuneiform artefacts. The case studies presented in this volume open new perspectives on the methodology in interpreting both texts and buildings.