Bird of prey
Ancient Near Eastern ArtStone-Sculptureca. late 3rd–early 2nd millennium B.C.

Bird of prey is a stone-sculpture of Bactria-Margiana Archaeological Complex origin created in ca. late 3rd–early 2nd millennium B.C. using marble, calcite, copper alloy, lapis lazuli measuring 1.28 x 1.48 in. (3.25 x 3.76 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About This Artwork

MediumMarble, calcite, copper alloy, lapis lazuli
Dimensions1.28 x 1.48 in. (3.25 x 3.76 cm)
ClassificationStone-Sculpture
DepartmentAncient Near Eastern Art
Credit LinePurchase, Nathaniel Spear Jr. Gift, 1988
Dateca. late 3rd–early 2nd millennium B.C.

Historical Context

Culture & Period

This work belongs to the Bactria-Margiana Archaeological Complex culture, dating from the Bronze Age period. The estimated date range is 2250 BC – 1750 BC.

Geography

Origin: Bactria-Margiana or eastern Iran.

Frequently Asked Questions

What department houses Bird of prey?

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

When was Bird of prey created?

Bird of prey dates to ca. late 3rd–early 2nd millennium B.C..

What material is Bird of prey made from?

Bird of prey is crafted from marble, calcite, copper alloy, lapis lazuli.

Is Bird of prey in the public domain?

Bird of prey 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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