Bead

Indus · Early Dynastic · ca. 2900–2350 B.C.

Ancient Near Eastern ArtStone-Ornamentsca. 2900–2350 B.C.

Bead is a stone-ornaments of Indus origin created in ca. 2900–2350 B.C. using carnelian measuring 0.31 x 0.59 x 0.75 in. (0.79 x 1.5 x 1.91 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About This Artwork

MediumCarnelian
Dimensions0.31 x 0.59 x 0.75 in. (0.79 x 1.5 x 1.91 cm)
ClassificationStone-Ornaments
DepartmentAncient Near Eastern Art
Credit LineRogers Fund, 1959
Dateca. 2900–2350 B.C.

Historical Context

Culture & Period

This work belongs to the Indus culture, dating from the Early Dynastic period. The estimated date range is 2900 BC – 2350 BC.

Geography

Origin: Mesopotamia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What department houses Bead?

Bead is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

When was Bead created?

Bead dates to ca. 2900–2350 B.C..

What material is Bead made from?

Bead is crafted from carnelian.

Is Bead in the public domain?

Bead is in the public domain and can be freely used.

Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026

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