Ancient Near Eastern ArtShell-Reliefsca. 2600–2500 B.C.Plaque with animal legs is a shell-reliefs of Sumerian origin created in ca. 2600–2500 B.C. using shell, slate, bitumen measuring 3.23 x 3.86 x 0.83 in. (8.2 x 9.8 x 2.11 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Shell, slate, bitumen |
| Dimensions | 3.23 x 3.86 x 0.83 in. (8.2 x 9.8 x 2.11 cm) |
| Classification | Shell-Reliefs |
| Department | Ancient Near Eastern Art |
| Credit Line | Rogers Fund, 1962 |
| Date | ca. 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. 
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Plaque with animal legs?
Plaque with animal legs is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Plaque with animal legs created?
Plaque with animal legs dates to ca. 2600–2500 B.C..
What material is Plaque with animal legs made from?
Plaque with animal legs is crafted from shell, slate, bitumen.
Is Plaque with animal legs in the public domain?
Plaque with animal legs is in the public domain and can be freely used.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026