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Hairpin with a Figure of a Hippopotamus

Middle Kingdom
ca. 1981–1640 B.C.
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 111
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

Object Information
  • 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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