Inlay: combat between a human-headed bull and a lion-headed eagle
Flag of IraqAncient Near Eastern ArtShell-Ornamentsca. 2600–2500 B.C.

Inlay: combat between a human-headed bull and a lion-headed eagle is a shell-ornaments of Sumerian origin created in ca. 2600–2500 B.C. using shell measuring 2.32 x 2.09 in. (5.89 x 5.31 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About This Artwork

MediumShell
Dimensions2.32 x 2.09 in. (5.89 x 5.31 cm)
ClassificationShell-Ornaments
DepartmentAncient Near Eastern Art
Credit LinePurchase, Leon Levy and Shelby White Gift, 1984
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 Inlay: combat between a human-headed bull and a lion-headed eagle?

Inlay: combat between a human-headed bull and a lion-headed eagle is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

When was Inlay: combat between a human-headed bull and a lion-headed eagle created?

Inlay: combat between a human-headed bull and a lion-headed eagle dates to ca. 2600–2500 B.C..

What material is Inlay: combat between a human-headed bull and a lion-headed eagle made from?

Inlay: combat between a human-headed bull and a lion-headed eagle is crafted from shell.

Is Inlay: combat between a human-headed bull and a lion-headed eagle in the public domain?

Inlay: combat between a human-headed bull and a lion-headed eagle 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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