Foundation figure of king Shulgi of Ur, carrying a basket
Flag of IraqAncient Near Eastern ArtMetalwork-Sculptureca. 2094–2047 B.C.

Foundation figure of king Shulgi of Ur, carrying a basket is a metalwork-sculpture of Neo-Sumerian origin created in ca. 2094–2047 B.C. using copper measuring 12 1/4 x 2 3/16 in. (31.1 x 5.6 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About This Artwork

MediumCopper
Dimensions12 1/4 x 2 3/16 in. (31.1 x 5.6 cm)
ClassificationMetalwork-Sculpture
DepartmentAncient Near Eastern Art
Credit LineRogers Fund, 1959
Dateca. 2094–2047 B.C.

Historical Context

Culture & Period

This work belongs to the Neo-Sumerian culture, dating from the Ur III period. The estimated date range is 2094 BC – 2047 BC.

Geography

Origin: Mesopotamia. Flag of Iraq

Frequently Asked Questions

What department houses Foundation figure of king Shulgi of Ur, carrying a basket?

Foundation figure of king Shulgi of Ur, carrying a basket is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

When was Foundation figure of king Shulgi of Ur, carrying a basket created?

Foundation figure of king Shulgi of Ur, carrying a basket dates to ca. 2094–2047 B.C..

What material is Foundation figure of king Shulgi of Ur, carrying a basket made from?

Foundation figure of king Shulgi of Ur, carrying a basket is crafted from copper.

Is Foundation figure of king Shulgi of Ur, carrying a basket in the public domain?

Foundation figure of king Shulgi of Ur, carrying a basket 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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