Ancient Near Eastern ArtShell-Ornamentsca. 2600–2500 B.C.
Scallop shell is a shell-ornaments created in ca. 2600–2500 B.C. using shell measuring 2.13 x 2.52 in. (5.41 x 6.4 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Shell |
| Dimensions | 2.13 x 2.52 in. (5.41 x 6.4 cm) |
| Classification | Shell-Ornaments |
| Department | Ancient Near Eastern Art |
| Credit Line | Rogers Fund, 1962 |
| Date | ca. 2600–2500 B.C. |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
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 Scallop shell?
Scallop shell is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Scallop shell created?
Scallop shell dates to ca. 2600–2500 B.C..
What material is Scallop shell made from?
Scallop shell is crafted from shell.
Is Scallop shell in the public domain?
Scallop shell is in the public domain and can be freely used.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026