Statuette of the goddess Toeris. Ancient Egypt, Late Period, 664–323 B.C.

Statuette of the goddess Toeris. Ancient Egypt, Late Period, 664–323 B.C.
Molded and glazed faience.
Provenance: private collection, Paris, France.
In good overall condition.
Measurements: 4.7 cm tall.

Toeris—also known as Taweret, “the Great”—was a deity who protected motherhood, pregnancy, childbirth, and infancy. Her image was frequently incorporated into small amulets and statuettes intended to ward off harmful forces and ensure the safety of the mother and the newborn. During the Late Period, this type of faience representation became widespread, as evidenced by examples preserved at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Brooklyn Museum.

The goddess takes on her characteristic hybrid appearance, with the upright body of a pregnant hippopotamus, lion-like features, and elements associated with the crocodile. This combination of animals considered powerful and dangerous endowed the figure with apotropaic power: its menacing appearance was meant to scare away evil beings.