Granite stone vessel, meticulously carved in the distinct shape of a Hippopotamus.

It boasts beautifully contoured forms, featuring smooth roundings and intricate details that bring to life the head, feet, and tail of this remarkable creature.

To the ancient Egyptians, the Hippopotamus was regarded as one of the most formidable threats in their world, embodying both danger and awe.

These enormous creatures posed a significant hazard for small fishing boats and various other river craft navigating the waterways.

Additionally, the fearsome beast might be encountered along the river’s paths in the essential journey to the afterlife, symbolizing both a guardian and a potential adversary.

As such, the Hippopotamus represented a powerful force of nature that needed to be acknowledged and controlled, both in life and in the realm beyond.

This exquisite example features a strategically placed hole in its back, thoughtfully designed to prevent the creature from inflicting harm upon the deceased it accompanied.

Comes with note of Dr. Timothy Kendall