Cylinder seal
Ancient Near Eastern ArtStone-Cylinder Seals-Inscribedca. 19th–18th century B.C.

Cylinder seal is a stone-cylinder seals-inscribed of Elamite origin created in ca. 19th–18th century B.C. using steatite or chlorite measuring 0.87 in. (2.21 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About This Artwork

MediumSteatite or chlorite
Dimensions0.87 in. (2.21 cm)
ClassificationStone-Cylinder Seals-Inscribed
DepartmentAncient Near Eastern Art
Credit LineGift of Martin and Sarah Cherkasky, 1987
Dateca. 19th–18th century B.C.

Historical Context

Culture & Period

This work belongs to the Elamite culture, dating from the Old Elamite period. The estimated date range is 1900 BC – 1700 BC.

Geography

Origin: Southwestern Iran.

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. 19th–18th century B.C..

What material is Cylinder seal made from?

Cylinder seal is crafted from steatite or chlorite.

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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