Ancient Near Eastern ArtShell-Ornamentsca. 8th century A.D.
Pierced disc is a shell-ornaments created in ca. 8th century A.D. using shell (mother-of-pearl) measuring 1 1/16 x 1/8 in. (2.7 x 0.3 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Shell (Mother-of-pearl) |
| Dimensions | 1 1/16 x 1/8 in. (2.7 x 0.3 cm) |
| Classification | Shell-Ornaments |
| Department | Ancient Near Eastern Art |
| Credit Line | Gift of Jacqueline Simcox, 1999 |
| Date | ca. 8th century A.D. |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
dating from the Six Dynasties Period period. The estimated date range is 700 – 800.
Geography
Origin: Caucasus region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Pierced disc?
Pierced disc is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Pierced disc created?
Pierced disc dates to ca. 8th century A.D..
What material is Pierced disc made from?
Pierced disc is crafted from shell (mother-of-pearl).
Is Pierced disc in the public domain?
Pierced disc is in the public domain and can be freely used.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026