Furniture element: ram with bitumen-lined socket
Flag of IraqAncient Near Eastern ArtStone-Sculptureca. 2600–2500 B.C.

Furniture element: ram with bitumen-lined socket is a stone-sculpture of Sumerian origin created in ca. 2600–2500 B.C. using gypsum alabaster, bitumen measuring 2.2 x 1.5 x 3.78 in. (5.59 x 3.81 x 9.6 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About This Artwork

MediumGypsum alabaster, bitumen
Dimensions2.2 x 1.5 x 3.78 in. (5.59 x 3.81 x 9.6 cm)
ClassificationStone-Sculpture
DepartmentAncient Near Eastern Art
Credit LineRogers Fund, 1962
Dateca. 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. Flag of Iraq

Frequently Asked Questions

What department houses Furniture element: ram with bitumen-lined socket?

Furniture element: ram with bitumen-lined socket is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

When was Furniture element: ram with bitumen-lined socket created?

Furniture element: ram with bitumen-lined socket dates to ca. 2600–2500 B.C..

What material is Furniture element: ram with bitumen-lined socket made from?

Furniture element: ram with bitumen-lined socket is crafted from gypsum alabaster, bitumen.

Is Furniture element: ram with bitumen-lined socket in the public domain?

Furniture element: ram with bitumen-lined socket 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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