Earring
Unknown Artist
ca. 3rd–2nd century BCE
Medium
Silver
Dimensions
1.38 in. (3.51 cm)
Classification
Metalwork-Ornaments
Culture & Period
Parthian (?) · Parthian (?)
Department
Ancient Near Eastern Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Anonymous Gift, 1970
Accession Number
1970.202.3
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite silver earring, dating to around the 3rd–2nd century BCE, hails from the Parthian culture—or possibly influenced by it—in the Ancient Near East. Measuring just 1.38 inches (3.51 cm), its petite scale highlights the finesse of ancient metalworkers who crafted delicate personal ornaments. The design prominently features horses, a motif that evokes the Parthian Empire's legendary cavalry and equestrian prowess, which helped them dominate vast territories from Iran to Mesopotamia after the fall of Alexander the Great's successors. Parthian jewelry like this earring reflects a blend...