Final answer:
The Standard of Ur, discovered in the Royal Cemetery at Ur, is a wooden trapezoidal box inlaid with precious materials and represents one of the oldest known pictorial narratives, with scenes of war and peace illustrating early Mesopotamian society's hierarchy and customs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Standard of Ur is a significant archaeological find from the Royal Cemetery at Ur, which was in use around 2600-2000 BCE. The Standard of Ur is a trapezoidal box made of wood inlaid with red limestone, lapis lazuli, and shells, representing one of the earliest forms of pictorial narratives. Its two sides, often referred to as the War side and the Peace side, illustrate the dichotomy of life in Mesopotamia, with one side depicting a battle and triumph over enemies, and the other celebrating the stability and festivities of peacetime. The hierarchical nature of the society is underscored by the representation of the figures, with the king being significantly larger than other characters, signifying his prominence.
Discovered by a joint expedition from The British Museum and the University Museum, Pennsylvania, led by Leonard Woolley, the royal graves of Ur revealed a cemetery which contained not only the Standard of Ur but also other elaborate grave goods. These findings suggest a society with significant wealth, specialized skills, and a well-established social hierarchy.
The Standard of Ur and its accompanying artifacts provide invaluable insight into the culture and customs of ancient Mesopotamia, considering the city of Ur was once a thriving hub that eventually became the capital of an empire. The object is now housed in the British Museum and remains a testament to the advanced nature of early civilizations.