Ancient Near Eastern ArtClay-Tablets-Inscribedca. 2040 B.C.Cuneiform tablet: receipt of straw is a clay-tablets-inscribed of Neo-Sumerian origin created in ca. 2040 B.C. using clay measuring 3.4 x 3.1 x 1.6 cm (1 3/8 x 1 1/4 x 5/8 in.) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Clay |
| Dimensions | 3.4 x 3.1 x 1.6 cm (1 3/8 x 1 1/4 x 5/8 in.) |
| Classification | Clay-Tablets-Inscribed |
| Department | Ancient Near Eastern Art |
| Credit Line | Purchase, 1886 |
| Date | ca. 2040 B.C. |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
This work belongs to the Neo-Sumerian culture, dating from the Ur III period. The estimated date range is 2040 BC.
Geography
Origin: Mesopotamia. 
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Cuneiform tablet: receipt of straw?
Cuneiform tablet: receipt of straw is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Cuneiform tablet: receipt of straw created?
Cuneiform tablet: receipt of straw dates to ca. 2040 B.C..
What material is Cuneiform tablet: receipt of straw made from?
Cuneiform tablet: receipt of straw is crafted from clay.
Is Cuneiform tablet: receipt of straw in the public domain?
Cuneiform tablet: receipt of straw is in the public domain and can be freely used.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026