Hairpin with a Figure of a Hippopotamus
The figure of an erect hippopotamus represents a goddess invoked as the protector of women in pregnancy and childbirth. Known as Ipy or Taweret ("The Great One"), she is often depicted with a crocodile stretched over her head and along her back. In the form of a hairpin, the goddess was intended to guard its wearer from harm. For an illustration of how the hairpin was used, see 26.3.353ww.
Artwork Details
- Title: Hairpin with a Figure of a Hippopotamus
- Period: Middle Kingdom
- Dynasty: Dynasty 12–13
- Date: ca. 1981–1640 B.C.
- Geography: From Egypt
- Medium: Bone
- Dimensions: H. 7.3 × W. 1.1 × D. 1.5 cm (2 7/8 × 7/16 × 9/16 in.)
- Credit Line: Rogers Fund, 1907
- Object Number: 07.228.165
- Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art
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