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Hippopotamus figurine

Middle Kingdom
ca. 1850–1700 B.C.
Not on view
This seated hippopotamus is depicted with its head turned to the side and its mouth open. This could either indicate that the hippo is roaring, or baring its teeth, which hippos do when feeling threatened, to intimate their opponents. The inside of the hippo’s mouth is painted red.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Hippopotamus figurine
  • Period: Middle Kingdom
  • Dynasty: Late Dynasty 12–13
  • Date: ca. 1850–1700 B.C.
  • Geography: From Egypt, Memphite Region, Lisht North, Tomb of Senwosret (758), inside, Pit 805, MMA excavations, 1907–08
  • Medium: Faience
  • Dimensions: L. 10.3 × W. 6.5 × H. 9 cm (4 1/16 × 2 9/16 × 3 9/16 in.)
  • Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1908
  • Object Number: 08.200.37
  • Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art

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