Ancient Near Eastern ArtStone-Ornamentsca. 2600–2500 B.C.Eye inlay for a statue is a stone-ornaments of Sumerian origin created in ca. 2600–2500 B.C. using lapis lazuli, shell measuring 0.24 x 0.24 x 0.63 in. (0.61 x 0.61 x 1.6 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Lapis lazuli, shell |
| Dimensions | 0.24 x 0.24 x 0.63 in. (0.61 x 0.61 x 1.6 cm) |
| Classification | Stone-Ornaments |
| Department | Ancient Near Eastern Art |
| Credit Line | Rogers Fund, 1962 |
| Date | ca. 2600–2500 B.C. |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
This work belongs to the Sumerian culture, dating from the Early Dynastic IIIa period. The estimated date range is 2600 BC – 2500 BC.
Geography
Origin: Mesopotamia. 
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Eye inlay for a statue?
Eye inlay for a statue is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Eye inlay for a statue created?
Eye inlay for a statue dates to ca. 2600–2500 B.C..
What material is Eye inlay for a statue made from?
Eye inlay for a statue is crafted from lapis lazuli, shell.
Is Eye inlay for a statue in the public domain?
Eye inlay for a statue is in the public domain and can be freely used.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026