Ancient Near Eastern ArtClay-Tablets-Inscribedca. 17th–16th century B.C.Cuneiform tablet: private letter is a clay-tablets-inscribed of Babylonian origin created in ca. 17th–16th century B.C. using clay measuring 5 x 4.7 x 2 cm (2 x 1 7/8 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 | 5 x 4.7 x 2 cm (2 x 1 7/8 x 3/4 in.) |
| Classification | Clay-Tablets-Inscribed |
| Department | Ancient Near Eastern Art |
| Credit Line | Museum Accession |
| Date | ca. 17th–16th century B.C. |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
This work belongs to the Babylonian culture, dating from the Old Babylonian period. The estimated date range is 1700 BC – 1500 BC.
Geography
Origin: Mesopotamia. 
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Cuneiform tablet: private letter?
Cuneiform tablet: private letter is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Cuneiform tablet: private letter created?
Cuneiform tablet: private letter dates to ca. 17th–16th century B.C..
What material is Cuneiform tablet: private letter made from?
Cuneiform tablet: private letter is crafted from clay.
Is Cuneiform tablet: private letter in the public domain?
Cuneiform tablet: private letter is in the public domain and can be freely used.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026