Cylinder seal
Ancient Near Eastern ArtMetalwork-Cylinder Sealsca. 3100–2900 B.C.

Cylinder seal is a metalwork-cylinder seals created in ca. 3100–2900 B.C. using copper or bronze 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

MediumCopper or bronze
Dimensions0.87 in. (2.21 cm)
ClassificationMetalwork-Cylinder Seals
DepartmentAncient Near Eastern Art
Credit LineGift of Dr. Leonard Gorelick, 1988
Dateca. 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 copper or bronze.

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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