Ancient Near Eastern ArtStone-Sculptureca. 3700–3500 B.C.
Eye idol is a stone-sculpture created in ca. 3700–3500 B.C. using gypsum alabaster measuring 3 5/8 in. (9.3 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Gypsum alabaster |
| Dimensions | 3 5/8 in. (9.3 cm) |
| Classification | Stone-Sculpture |
| Department | Ancient Near Eastern Art |
| Credit Line | Gift of The Institute of Archaeology, The University of London, 1951 |
| Date | ca. 3700–3500 B.C. |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
dating from the Middle Uruk period. The estimated date range is 3700 BC – 3500 BC.
Geography
Origin: Syria.
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Eye idol?
Eye idol is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Eye idol created?
Eye idol dates to ca. 3700–3500 B.C..
What material is Eye idol made from?
Eye idol is crafted from gypsum alabaster.
Is Eye idol in the public domain?
Eye idol is in the public domain and can be freely used.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026