Ancient Near Eastern ArtShell-Ornamentsca. 2900–2700 B.C.
Amulet in the form of a couchant lion is a shell-ornaments created in ca. 2900–2700 B.C. using shell measuring 7/8 x 4 1/8 in. (2.2 x 10.6 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Shell |
| Dimensions | 7/8 x 4 1/8 in. (2.2 x 10.6 cm) |
| Classification | Shell-Ornaments |
| Department | Ancient Near Eastern Art |
| Credit Line | Gift of Walter Hauser, 1958 |
| Date | ca. 2900–2700 B.C. |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
dating from the Early Dynastic I period. The estimated date range is 2900 BC – 2700 BC.
Geography
Origin: Southern Mesopotamia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Amulet in the form of a couchant lion?
Amulet in the form of a couchant lion is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Amulet in the form of a couchant lion created?
Amulet in the form of a couchant lion dates to ca. 2900–2700 B.C..
What material is Amulet in the form of a couchant lion made from?
Amulet in the form of a couchant lion is crafted from shell.
Is Amulet in the form of a couchant lion in the public domain?
Amulet in the form of a couchant lion is in the public domain and can be freely used.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026