Jasper Lentoid
Unknown Artist
ca. 1450–1375 BCE
Medium
Jasper
Dimensions
H.: 7/8 in. (2.3 cm)
Classification
Gems
Culture & Period
Minoan · Late Minoan II–IIIA
Department
Greek and Roman Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Bequest of Richard B. Seager, 1926
Accession Number
26.31.291
Art Historical Context
This exquisite jasper lentoid, dating to around 1450–1375 BCE, hails from the vibrant Minoan culture of Late Minoan II–IIIA on Crete. Measuring just 7/8 inch (2.3 cm) in height, this small, lentil-shaped gem—classified among ancient seals—was meticulously carved from durable red jasper, a semiprecious prized for its hardness and rich color. Lentoids like this were common in Minoan society, serving as personal seals for imprinting clay documents, marking ownership, or possibly as protective amulets. Minoan art flourished during the Bronze Age palace era, with grand complexes like Knossos showc...