Hyena(?) Figurine

3D Model

Head and neck from ceramic figurine of an animal, from the ancient Sudanese city of Meroe.

It is sometimes difficult to identify the precise species from very stylised depictions in art, and this object is a prime example. The central crest running from the forehead and down the back of the head looks similar to the crest of hair that hyenas raise when they feel threatened, to make themselves look larger. However this identification is far from certain.

Accession no: 732/17