Neolithic · ca. late 8th millennium B.C.
Ancient Near Eastern ArtStone-Ornamentsca. late 8th millennium B.C.
Bead is a stone-ornaments created in ca. late 8th millennium B.C. using alabaster (gypsum) measuring 1 1/4 x 1 3/8 in. (3.3 x 3.5 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Alabaster (gypsum) |
| Dimensions | 1 1/4 x 1 3/8 in. (3.3 x 3.5 cm) |
| Classification | Stone-Ornaments |
| Department | Ancient Near Eastern Art |
| Credit Line | Gift of Sheldon and Barbara Breitbart, 1985 |
| Date | ca. late 8th millennium B.C. |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
dating from the Neolithic period. The estimated date range is 7250 BC – 7000 BC.
Geography
Origin: Syria.
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. late 8th millennium B.C..
What material is Bead made from?
Bead is crafted from alabaster (gypsum).
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