Ancient Near Eastern ArtStone-Ornamentsca. 7th–6th century B.C.Bead or whorl is a stone-ornaments of Iran origin created in ca. 7th–6th century B.C. using stone, white measuring Diam. 2.2 cm x H. 1.8 cm — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Stone, white |
| Dimensions | Diam. 2.2 cm x H. 1.8 cm |
| Classification | Stone-Ornaments |
| Department | Ancient Near Eastern Art |
| Credit Line | Purchase, The Adelaide Milton de Groot Fund, in memory of the de Groot and Hawley families, 1970 |
| Date | ca. 7th–6th century B.C. |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
This work belongs to the Iran culture, dating from the Iron Age III period. The estimated date range is 700 BC – 500 BC.
Geography
Origin: Iran. 
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Bead or whorl?
Bead or whorl is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Bead or whorl created?
Bead or whorl dates to ca. 7th–6th century B.C..
What material is Bead or whorl made from?
Bead or whorl is crafted from stone, white.
Is Bead or whorl in the public domain?
Bead or whorl is in the public domain and can be freely used.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026