Ancient Near Eastern ArtShell-Vesselsca. 2112–2004 B.C.Spouted bowl or oil lamp is a shell-vessels of Neo-Sumerian origin created in ca. 2112–2004 B.C. using shell measuring 4.37 x 6.5 in. (11.1 x 16.51 cm) — now part of the Ancient Near Eastern Art collection at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About This Artwork
| Medium | Shell |
| Dimensions | 4.37 x 6.5 in. (11.1 x 16.51 cm) |
| Classification | Shell-Vessels |
| Department | Ancient Near Eastern Art |
| Credit Line | Rogers Fund and Gifts of Lucy W. Drexel, Theodore M. Davis, Helen Miller Gould, Alber Gallatin, Egypt Exploration Fund and Egyptian Research Account, by exchange, 1950 |
| Date | ca. 2112–2004 B.C. |
Historical Context
Culture & Period
This work belongs to the Neo-Sumerian culture, dating from the Ur III period. The estimated date range is 2112 BC – 2004 BC.
Geography
Origin: Mesopotamia. 
Frequently Asked Questions
What department houses Spouted bowl or oil lamp?
Spouted bowl or oil lamp is housed in the Ancient Near Eastern Art department of The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
When was Spouted bowl or oil lamp created?
Spouted bowl or oil lamp dates to ca. 2112–2004 B.C..
What material is Spouted bowl or oil lamp made from?
Spouted bowl or oil lamp is crafted from shell.
Is Spouted bowl or oil lamp in the public domain?
Spouted bowl or oil lamp is in the public domain and can be freely used.
Data Source: The Metropolitan Museum of Art Open Access · Last updated: April 2026