C. 1070–664 BC – Third Intermediate Period

A fine example of a blue faience Egyptian amulet of the goddess Taweret or Taurt, depicted as a heavily pregnant hippopotamus whose name means, “The great one”. She stands with her leg advanced on an oblong base, leaning on a ‘Sa’ symbol, representing protection with an ostrich feather above. She has the body of a hippopotamus, limbs of a feline, most probably a lion and the usual long crocodile tail hanging down her back. It has fine incised detail and is pierced through the top for suspension.

Minor nick to tip of feather otherwise a fine example with a beautiful blue glaze and some light earthy surface deposits.

Ref: Similar example in The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Object Number 10.130.2019

Provenance: Dr Jacques Schotte, 1928-2007. Leuven formed 1960’s to 1970’s.

Size: H: 34mm x W: 31mm