Taweret Figure

Late Period

664–332 B.C.

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 130

This statuette most likely represents the goddess Taweret, protector of pregnant women, especially during childbirth. A composite deity with the head and body of a hippopotamus, human breasts, the paws of a lioness, and a crocodile tail, Taweret's frightening figure was meant to chase away menacing demons who meant harm. A hole in her head would have held a crown, perhaps of metal, in the shape of a sun disk flanked by feathers or horns. Between her front paws she holds a sa sign, symbol of protection.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Title: Taweret Figure
Period: Late Period
Dynasty: Dynasty 26–30
Date: 664–332 B.C.
Geography: From Egypt
Medium: Faience
Dimensions: H. 9.5 cm (3 3/4 in.)
Credit Line: Gift of Joseph W. Drexel, 1889
Object Number: 89.2.311
Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art

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