Cylinder seal
Flag of IraqAncient Near Eastern ArtStone-Cylinder Seals-Inscribedca. 8th–7th century B.C.

Cylinder seal is a stone-cylinder seals-inscribed of Elamite or Babylonian origin created in ca. 8th–7th century B.C. using chalcedony measuring 1.34 in. (3.4 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About This Artwork

MediumChalcedony
Dimensions1.34 in. (3.4 cm)
ClassificationStone-Cylinder Seals-Inscribed
DepartmentAncient Near Eastern Art
Credit LineGift of Martin and Sarah Cherkasky, 1987
Dateca. 8th–7th century B.C.

Historical Context

Culture & Period

This work belongs to the Elamite or Babylonian culture, dating from the Neo-Elamite or Neo-Babylonian period. The estimated date range is 800 BC – 600 BC.

Geography

Origin: Mesopotamia or Iran. Flag of Iraq

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. 8th–7th century B.C..

What material is Cylinder seal made from?

Cylinder seal is crafted from chalcedony.

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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