The collection of the Art Institute’s Department of Ancient and Byzantine Art spans nearly 4,000 years and is comprised of significant artworks from ancient Near Eastern, Byzantine, Egyptian, Etruscan, Greek, and Roman cultures.

Highlights of the department's 5,000 objects include sculpture in stone, terracotta, and bronze, as well as vases, mosaics, glass, jewelry, and coins of outstanding quality.

Together they offer a comprehensive survey of the art of the ancient and medieval Mediterranean world.