Ancient Near Eastern ArtShell-Ornamentsca. 3300–2900 B.C.
Amulet in the form of a lion with legs extended is a shell-ornaments created in ca. 3300–2900 B.C. using shell measuring 5/8 x 3 1/4 in. (1.6 x 8.4 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Shell |
| Dimensions | 5/8 x 3 1/4 in. (1.6 x 8.4 cm) |
| Classification | Shell-Ornaments |
| Department | Ancient Near Eastern Art |
| Credit Line | Gift of Joseph M. Upton, 1954 |
| Date | ca. 3300–2900 B.C. |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
dating from the Late Uruk–Jemdet Nasr period. The estimated date range is 3300 BC – 2900 BC.
Geography
Origin: Southern Mesopotamia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Amulet in the form of a lion with legs extended?
Amulet in the form of a lion with legs extended is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Amulet in the form of a lion with legs extended created?
Amulet in the form of a lion with legs extended dates to ca. 3300–2900 B.C..
What material is Amulet in the form of a lion with legs extended made from?
Amulet in the form of a lion with legs extended is crafted from shell.
Is Amulet in the form of a lion with legs extended in the public domain?
Amulet in the form of a lion with legs extended is in the public domain and can be freely used.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026