Fan or fly-whisk handle in the form of four female figures
Flag of IraqAncient Near Eastern ArtIvory/Bone-Sculptureca. 8th–7th century B.C.

Fan or fly-whisk handle in the form of four female figures is a ivory/bone-sculpture of Assyrian origin created in ca. 8th–7th century B.C. using ivory, gold leaf measuring 3.9 in. (9.91 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About This Artwork

MediumIvory, gold leaf
Dimensions3.9 in. (9.91 cm)
ClassificationIvory/Bone-Sculpture
DepartmentAncient Near Eastern Art
Credit LineRogers Fund, 1952
Dateca. 8th–7th century B.C.

Historical Context

Culture & Period

This work belongs to the Assyrian culture, dating from the Neo-Assyrian period. The estimated date range is 800 BC – 600 BC.

Geography

Origin: Mesopotamia. Flag of Iraq

Frequently Asked Questions

What department houses Fan or fly-whisk handle in the form of four female figures?

Fan or fly-whisk handle in the form of four female figures is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

When was Fan or fly-whisk handle in the form of four female figures created?

Fan or fly-whisk handle in the form of four female figures dates to ca. 8th–7th century B.C..

What material is Fan or fly-whisk handle in the form of four female figures made from?

Fan or fly-whisk handle in the form of four female figures is crafted from ivory, gold leaf.

Is Fan or fly-whisk handle in the form of four female figures in the public domain?

Fan or fly-whisk handle in the form of four female figures 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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