Hairpin with a Figure of a Hippopotamus

Middle Kingdom

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.

Hairpin with a Figure of a Hippopotamus, Bone

This image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Open Access

As part of the Met's Open Access policy, you can freely copy, modify and distribute this image, even for commercial purposes.

API

Public domain data for this object can also be accessed using the Met's Open Access API.

Hairpin with a Figure of a Hippopotamus, Bone
Hairpin with a Figure of a Hippopotamus, Bone

This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.