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Figurine of a Dog

Middle Kingdom
ca. 1961–1917 B.C.
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 109
Already in the Early Dynastic Period, Egyptians deposited faience figurines of wild animals in temple precincts. These figurines were reintroduced in the 12th Dynasty, but as a component of burial equipment and with new species added to the repertoire. The controlled representation of desert animals may have assured the Egyptians of eternal safety, though they also likely had symbolic meanings. The dog may represent a personal wish for companionship.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Figurine of a Dog
  • Period: Middle Kingdom
  • Dynasty: Dynasty 12
  • Reign: reign of Senwosret I
  • Date: ca. 1961–1917 B.C.
  • Geography: From Egypt, Memphite Region, Lisht South, Pyramid Complex of Senwosret I, outer court west, east of boat pit, MMA excavations, 1923–24
  • Medium: Faience
  • Dimensions: L. 5.3 cm (2 1/16 in.); W. 2.3 cm (7/8 in.); H. 3.6 cm (1 7/16 in.)
  • Credit Line: Rogers Fund and Edward S. Harkness Gift, 1924
  • Object Number: 24.1.51
  • Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art

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