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Hippopotamus

New Kingdom
ca. 1550–1070 B.C.
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 111
This tiny reclining hippo is masterfully carved from red jasper, a material that is typical for the New Kingdom. Pierced lengthwise, it might have been used as a piece of jewelry or as an amulet. Ancient Egyptians believed that hippopotami were very dangerous animals, but they also associated hippos with positive qualities such as life, regeneration, and rebirth.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Hippopotamus
  • Period: New Kingdom
  • Date: ca. 1550–1070 B.C.
  • Geography: From Egypt
  • Medium: Red jasper
  • Dimensions: L. 2.5 × W. 1.5 × H. 1.3 cm (1 × 9/16 × 1/2 in.)
  • Credit Line: Gift of Helen Miller Gould, 1910
  • Object Number: 10.130.2429
  • Curatorial Department: Egyptian Art

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