Ancient Near Eastern ArtClay-Tablets-Inscribedca. 497 B.C.Cuneiform tablet: house rental contract is a clay-tablets-inscribed of Achaemenid origin created in ca. 497 B.C. using clay measuring 3.9 x 4.6 x 1.9 cm (1 1/2 x 1 3/4 x 3/4 in.) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Clay |
| Dimensions | 3.9 x 4.6 x 1.9 cm (1 1/2 x 1 3/4 x 3/4 in.) |
| Classification | Clay-Tablets-Inscribed |
| Department | Ancient Near Eastern Art |
| Credit Line | Purchase, 1886 |
| Date | ca. 497 B.C. |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
This work belongs to the Achaemenid culture, dating from the Achaemenid period. The estimated date range is 497 BC.
Geography
Origin: Mesopotamia. 
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Cuneiform tablet: house rental contract?
Cuneiform tablet: house rental contract is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Cuneiform tablet: house rental contract created?
Cuneiform tablet: house rental contract dates to ca. 497 B.C..
What material is Cuneiform tablet: house rental contract made from?
Cuneiform tablet: house rental contract is crafted from clay.
Is Cuneiform tablet: house rental contract in the public domain?
Cuneiform tablet: house rental contract is in the public domain and can be freely used.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026