Cylinder seal
Ancient Near Eastern ArtStone-Cylinder Sealsca. 15th–13th century B.C.

Cylinder seal is a stone-cylinder seals of Mitanni origin created in ca. 15th–13th century B.C. using hematite measuring H. 13/16 in. (2.1 cm); Diam. 3/8 in. (0.9 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About This Artwork

MediumHematite
DimensionsH. 13/16 in. (2.1 cm); Diam. 3/8 in. (0.9 cm)
ClassificationStone-Cylinder Seals
DepartmentAncient Near Eastern Art
Credit LineGift of Nanette B. Kelekian, in memory of Charles Dikran and Beatrice Kelekian, 1999
Dateca. 15th–13th century B.C.

Historical Context

Culture & Period

This work belongs to the Mitanni culture, dating from the Mitanni period. The estimated date range is 1500 BC – 1200 BC.

Geography

Origin: Syria or Cyprus.

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. 15th–13th century B.C..

What material is Cylinder seal made from?

Cylinder seal is crafted from hematite.

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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