Cylinder seal with hunting scene

Art Historical Context

This exquisite cylinder seal, crafted from variegated brown limestone around the 6th century BCE, hails from the Neo-Elamite period in ancient Elam—a sophisticated civilization in southwestern Iran. Measuring just 0.83 inches (2.11 cm) in height, these small yet intricate objects were rolled across wet clay to create repeated impressions, serving as seals for documents, goods, or administrative purposes. Donated to the Metropolitan Museum of Art 1984 by Martin and Sarah Cherkask, it exemplifies the artistry of the Ancient Near Eastern world. The seal depicts a dynamic hunting scene, featuring...