Cylinder seal
Ancient Near Eastern ArtStone-Cylinder Sealsmid 4th-mid 3rd Millennium BC

Cylinder seal is a stone-cylinder seals created in mid 4th-mid 3rd Millennium BC using stone measuring 0.79 x 0.43 in. (2.01 x 1.09 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About This Artwork

MediumStone
Dimensions0.79 x 0.43 in. (2.01 x 1.09 cm)
ClassificationStone-Cylinder Seals
DepartmentAncient Near Eastern Art
Credit LineGift of Martin and Sarah Cherkasky, 1986
Datemid 4th-mid 3rd Millennium BC

Historical Context

Culture & Period

dating from the Early Bronze Age period. The estimated date range is 3500 BC – 2500 BC.

Geography

Origin: Syria.

Frequently Asked Questions

What department houses Cylinder seal?

Cylinder seal is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

When was Cylinder seal created?

Cylinder seal dates to mid 4th-mid 3rd Millennium BC.

What material is Cylinder seal made from?

Cylinder seal is crafted from stone.

Is Cylinder seal in the public domain?

Cylinder seal is in the public domain and can be freely used.

Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026

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