Sickle blade set in bitumen for attachment to a handle
Flag of IraqAncient Near Eastern ArtStone-Implementsca. 2900–2700 B.C.

Sickle blade set in bitumen for attachment to a handle is a stone-implements of Sumerian origin created in ca. 2900–2700 B.C. using flint, bitumen measuring 1.14 x 2.76 in. (2.9 x 7.01 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About This Artwork

MediumFlint, bitumen
Dimensions1.14 x 2.76 in. (2.9 x 7.01 cm)
ClassificationStone-Implements
DepartmentAncient Near Eastern Art
Credit LineRogers Fund, 1962
Dateca. 2900–2700 B.C.

Historical Context

Culture & Period

This work belongs to the Sumerian culture, dating from the Early Dynastic I period. The estimated date range is 2900 BC – 2700 BC.

Geography

Origin: Mesopotamia. Flag of Iraq

Frequently Asked Questions

What department houses Sickle blade set in bitumen for attachment to a handle?

Sickle blade set in bitumen for attachment to a handle is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

When was Sickle blade set in bitumen for attachment to a handle created?

Sickle blade set in bitumen for attachment to a handle dates to ca. 2900–2700 B.C..

What material is Sickle blade set in bitumen for attachment to a handle made from?

Sickle blade set in bitumen for attachment to a handle is crafted from flint, bitumen.

Is Sickle blade set in bitumen for attachment to a handle in the public domain?

Sickle blade set in bitumen for attachment to a handle 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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