2nd-1st millennium BC. A pottery statue of standing hippopotamus, prominent snout, raised eyes with brows highlighted in black paint, head painted red with black border around base of neck, ears absent; series of triangular motifs decorate the animal's back and flanks. 501 grams, 14.8cm (5 3/4"). From the private collection of a medical professional; acquired in 2009; formerly in a private British collection, acquired in the 1980s. During this period and culture, a hippopotamus was a symbol of fertility and new life. Hippopotamus statuettes were often deposited as grave goods. [A video of this lot will be available on Timeline Auction website]