Bead

Neolithic · 7th–6th millennium B.C.

Ancient Near Eastern ArtStone-Ornaments7th–6th millennium B.C.

Bead is a stone-ornaments created in 7th–6th millennium B.C. using chalcedony measuring 0.29 x 0.64 x 1.11 in. (0.74 x 1.63 x 2.82 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About This Artwork

MediumChalcedony
Dimensions0.29 x 0.64 x 1.11 in. (0.74 x 1.63 x 2.82 cm)
ClassificationStone-Ornaments
DepartmentAncient Near Eastern Art
Credit LineGift of Sheldon and Barbara Breitbart, 1985
Date7th–6th millennium B.C.

Historical Context

Culture & Period

dating from the Neolithic period. The estimated date range is 7000 BC – 5000 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 7th–6th millennium B.C..

What material is Bead made from?

Bead is crafted from chalcedony.

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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