Ancient Near Eastern ArtStone-Sculpture-Inscribedca. 2080 B.C.Human-headed bison is a stone-sculpture-inscribed of Neo-Sumerian origin created in ca. 2080 B.C. using serpentine (lizardite) measuring 4.53 x 4.53 in. (11.51 x 11.51 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Serpentine (lizardite) |
| Dimensions | 4.53 x 4.53 in. (11.51 x 11.51 cm) |
| Classification | Stone-Sculpture-Inscribed |
| Department | Ancient Near Eastern Art |
| Credit Line | Rogers Fund, 1996 |
| Date | ca. 2080 B.C. |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
This work belongs to the Neo-Sumerian culture, dating from the Neo-Sumerian period. The estimated date range is 2080 BC.
Geography
Origin: Mesopotamia. 
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Human-headed bison?
Human-headed bison is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Human-headed bison created?
Human-headed bison dates to ca. 2080 B.C..
What material is Human-headed bison made from?
Human-headed bison is crafted from serpentine (lizardite).
Is Human-headed bison in the public domain?
Human-headed bison is in the public domain and can be freely used.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026