Cosmetic box fragment with the head of a sphinx
Flag of IranAncient Near Eastern ArtIvory/Bone-Vesselsca. 9th century B.C.

Cosmetic box fragment with the head of a sphinx is a ivory/bone-vessels of Iran origin created in ca. 9th century B.C. using ivory, gold foil measuring 1.46 x 1.18 x 0.43 in. (3.71 x 3 x 1.09 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About This Artwork

MediumIvory, gold foil
Dimensions1.46 x 1.18 x 0.43 in. (3.71 x 3 x 1.09 cm)
ClassificationIvory/Bone-Vessels
DepartmentAncient Near Eastern Art
Credit LineRogers Fund, 1965
Dateca. 9th century B.C.

Historical Context

Culture & Period

This work belongs to the Iran culture, dating from the Iron Age II period. The estimated date range is 900 BC – 800 BC.

Geography

Origin: Iran. Flag of Iran

Frequently Asked Questions

What department houses Cosmetic box fragment with the head of a sphinx?

Cosmetic box fragment with the head of a sphinx is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

When was Cosmetic box fragment with the head of a sphinx created?

Cosmetic box fragment with the head of a sphinx dates to ca. 9th century B.C..

What material is Cosmetic box fragment with the head of a sphinx made from?

Cosmetic box fragment with the head of a sphinx is crafted from ivory, gold foil.

Is Cosmetic box fragment with the head of a sphinx in the public domain?

Cosmetic box fragment with the head of a sphinx 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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