Hippopotamus

Unknown

ca. 1981–1650 B.C. · Faience · Egyptian Art

Hippopotamus statuettes made out of faience (a non-clay ceramic material) occur in four different positions: standing, walking, seated, and reclining. The surface of the walking hippopotamus here is painted with the most common decorative motif for such figurines, open and closed lotus flowers and lotus leaves. In addition a frog is depicted on each of the hippo’s hind quarters. The faience glaze has discolored over time and what was once a bright blue faded to a very light blue-green in most places. It is also damaged in several areas, especially on the back, and reveals the rough white core of the material.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1981–1650 B.C.

Medium

Faience

Department

Egyptian Art

Credit line

Rogers Fund, 1932