Balance Weight

This balance weight has a hook at the top where a string could be tied. The weight is engraved with twelve petals of a lotus flower, each of which is inscribed with the image of one of the twelve zodiac figures. The weight has a hole in the bottom, and its interior is filled with lead. Although it is still not clear what kind of measurement was used during the Unified Silla Period, this balance weights is nonetheless valuable evidence for studying the measurement standards of the time. Similar balance weights have been found in the capital and other regions; a unified weight measure constituted a useful standard for economic activities, such as bartering and other commercial transactions. They were also used for administrative activities related to taxation and public wealth, establishing a basis for the smooth operation of national business.