Ancient Near Eastern ArtStone-Cylinder Sealsca. 3100–2900 B.C.
Cylinder seal is a stone-cylinder seals created in ca. 3100–2900 B.C. using steatite or serpentine, black measuring 0.48 in. (1.22 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Steatite or serpentine, black |
| Dimensions | 0.48 in. (1.22 cm) |
| Classification | Stone-Cylinder Seals |
| Department | Ancient Near Eastern Art |
| Credit Line | Gift of Martin and Sarah Cherkasky, 1983 |
| Date | ca. 3100–2900 B.C. |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
dating from the Jemdet Nasr period. The estimated date range is 3100 BC – 2900 BC.
Geography
Origin: Mesopotamia.
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 ca. 3100–2900 B.C..
What material is Cylinder seal made from?
Cylinder seal is crafted from steatite or serpentine, black.
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