Ancient Near Eastern ArtClay-Tablets-Inscribedca. 490 B.C. (?)Cuneiform tablet: unidentified fragment is a clay-tablets-inscribed of Achaemenid origin created in ca. 490 B.C. (?) using clay measuring 4 x 4.3 x 3 cm (1 5/8 x 1 3/4 x 1 1/8 in.) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Clay |
| Dimensions | 4 x 4.3 x 3 cm (1 5/8 x 1 3/4 x 1 1/8 in.) |
| Classification | Clay-Tablets-Inscribed |
| Department | Ancient Near Eastern Art |
| Credit Line | Purchase, 1886 |
| Date | ca. 490 B.C. (?) |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
This work belongs to the Achaemenid culture, dating from the Achaemenid period. The estimated date range is 490 BC.
Geography
Origin: Mesopotamia. 
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Cuneiform tablet: unidentified fragment?
Cuneiform tablet: unidentified fragment is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Cuneiform tablet: unidentified fragment created?
Cuneiform tablet: unidentified fragment dates to ca. 490 B.C. (?).
What material is Cuneiform tablet: unidentified fragment made from?
Cuneiform tablet: unidentified fragment is crafted from clay.
Is Cuneiform tablet: unidentified fragment in the public domain?
Cuneiform tablet: unidentified fragment is in the public domain and can be freely used.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026