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Figure of a Frog

Egyptian, Classical, Ancient Near Eastern Art

On View: Pre-Dynastic, Egyptian Galleries, 3rd Floor
Early Sculpture

Almost all of the small figures in this case originally were placed in temples.


We do not know the significance of many of these early objects. The lion probably embodied divine or royal power, and frogs may have provided protection during childbirth, as in later times.

The figure of a squatting little boy in this case may have been offered to a god as the expression of a wish to bear children. The destructive powers of animals such as pigs, hippos, and scorpions could apparently be neutralized and even made useful through their images, as in the hippo-headed top of a mace (war club).

The ivory lioness was part of a common board game, of which partial sets have survived. The opposing side’s pieces were carved ivory figures of crouching lions or dogs.
MEDIUM Terracotta
  • Possible Place Collected: Abydos, Egypt
  • DATES ca. 3000–2675 B.C.E.
    DYNASTY Dynasty 1 to Dynasty 2 (probably)
    PERIOD Early Dynastic Period
    DIMENSIONS 2 1/16 x 3 13/16 in. (5.2 x 9.7 cm)  (show scale)
    ACCESSION NUMBER L58.2.5
    CREDIT LINE Anonymous loan
    CATALOGUE DESCRIPTION Terracotta statuette of a frog. Surface polished and orange-red in color. Heavy, rather massive modeling suggestive of one of the larger mammals. Eyes indicated by small applied pellets. Condition: Surface worn. Otherwise intact.
    MUSEUM LOCATION This item is on view in Pre-Dynastic, Egyptian Galleries, 3rd Floor
    CAPTION Figure of a Frog, ca. 3000–2675 B.C.E. Terracotta, 2 1/16 x 3 13/16 in. (5.2 x 9.7 cm). Anonymous loan, L58.2.5. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: , CUR.L58.2.3_L58.2.5_erg3.jpg)
    IMAGE group, CUR.L58.2.3_L58.2.5_erg3.jpg.
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