Ancient Near Eastern ArtClay-Tablets-Inscribedca. 596 B.C.Cuneiform tablet: purchase of a field is a clay-tablets-inscribed of Babylonian origin created in ca. 596 B.C. using clay measuring 7.8 x 5.6 x 2.3 cm (3 1/8 x 2 1/4 x 7/8 in.) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Clay |
| Dimensions | 7.8 x 5.6 x 2.3 cm (3 1/8 x 2 1/4 x 7/8 in.) |
| Classification | Clay-Tablets-Inscribed |
| Department | Ancient Near Eastern Art |
| Credit Line | Purchase, 1886 |
| Date | ca. 596 B.C. |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
This work belongs to the Babylonian culture, dating from the Neo-Babylonian period. The estimated date range is 596 BC.
Geography
Origin: Mesopotamia. 
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Cuneiform tablet: purchase of a field?
Cuneiform tablet: purchase of a field is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Cuneiform tablet: purchase of a field created?
Cuneiform tablet: purchase of a field dates to ca. 596 B.C..
What material is Cuneiform tablet: purchase of a field made from?
Cuneiform tablet: purchase of a field is crafted from clay.
Is Cuneiform tablet: purchase of a field in the public domain?
Cuneiform tablet: purchase of a field is in the public domain and can be freely used.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026