Inlay: seated male with cup and palm frond
Flag of IraqAncient Near Eastern ArtShell-Ornamentsca. 2600–2350 B.C.

Inlay: seated male with cup and palm frond is a shell-ornaments of Sumerian origin created in ca. 2600–2350 B.C. using shell measuring H. 3/16 x W. 1 3/8 x D. 1 9/16 in. (0.5 x 3.5 x 4 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About This Artwork

MediumShell
DimensionsH. 3/16 x W. 1 3/8 x D. 1 9/16 in. (0.5 x 3.5 x 4 cm)
ClassificationShell-Ornaments
DepartmentAncient Near Eastern Art
Credit LineRogers Fund, 1959
Dateca. 2600–2350 B.C.

Historical Context

Culture & Period

This work belongs to the Sumerian culture, dating from the Early Dynastic III period. The estimated date range is 2600 BC – 2350 BC.

Geography

Origin: Mesopotamia. Flag of Iraq

Frequently Asked Questions

What department houses Inlay: seated male with cup and palm frond?

Inlay: seated male with cup and palm frond is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

When was Inlay: seated male with cup and palm frond created?

Inlay: seated male with cup and palm frond dates to ca. 2600–2350 B.C..

What material is Inlay: seated male with cup and palm frond made from?

Inlay: seated male with cup and palm frond is crafted from shell.

Is Inlay: seated male with cup and palm frond in the public domain?

Inlay: seated male with cup and palm frond 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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