#faience

Before there was Moo Deng, there was William.

This little blue hippopotamus, known affectionately as William, has been a fan favorite at The Metropolitan Museum of Art for over a century. Dating back to Egypt’s Middle Kingdom (c. 1961–1878 BCE), William was likely placed in tombs to offer protection in the afterlife.

His bright faience glaze and lotus decorations connect him to the Nile’s waters—but don’t let his charm fool you! Ancient Egyptians knew that hippos were both revered and feared, making William a powerful symbol. He epitomizes the Egyptian craftsmanship of the era.

Take a closer look at William on JSTOR.

Eye of Horus (wadjet) ring

New Kingdom, 18th Dynasty, ca. 1550-1292 BC.

Faience Hippopotamus

Egypt, New Kingdom, 18th-20th Dynasty, 1550-1070 BCE

It consists of seven thousand faience beads in blue green and blue to imitate turquoise and lapis lazuli. It is 4600 years old (the threading is modern, but the beads were found in their original pattern so this reconstruction is as accurate as it can be). It is one of the most gorgeous garments in existence and was owned by a woman who was a contemporary of king Khufu.

~ Figure of Nehebkau.

Period: Late Period, 26th Dynasty

Date: 664–525 B.C.

Place of origin: Egypt