Ancient Near Eastern ArtStone-Cylinder Seals-Inscribedca. 2350–2150 B.C.
Cylinder seal: contest scene is a stone-cylinder seals-inscribed of Akkadian origin created in ca. 2350–2150 B.C. using agate measuring H. 1 1/4 in. (3.1 cm); Diam. 3/4 in. (1.9 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Agate |
| Dimensions | H. 1 1/4 in. (3.1 cm); Diam. 3/4 in. (1.9 cm) |
| Classification | Stone-Cylinder Seals-Inscribed |
| Department | Ancient Near Eastern Art |
| Credit Line | Gift of Nanette B. Kelekian, in memory of Charles Dikran and Beatrice Kelekian, 1999 |
| Date | ca. 2350–2150 B.C. |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
This work belongs to the Akkadian culture, dating from the Akkadian period. The estimated date range is 2350 BC – 2150 BC.
Geography
Origin: Mesopotamia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Cylinder seal: contest scene?
Cylinder seal: contest scene is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Cylinder seal: contest scene created?
Cylinder seal: contest scene dates to ca. 2350–2150 B.C..
What material is Cylinder seal: contest scene made from?
Cylinder seal: contest scene is crafted from agate.
Is Cylinder seal: contest scene in the public domain?
Cylinder seal: contest scene is in the public domain and can be freely used.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026