3-037-529 - Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Hippopotamus Flask, 3rd-4th century A.D. Additional Info: Free-blown flask of dark green glass in the shape of a hippopotamus. The wide mouth extends from the tail end of the animal which forms the vessel's body. It is comprised of two bulbous shapes: one for the head and one for the body. The head narrows to a point. The rim is folded over the outer edge. Features are applied: the front feet and a thread encircling the face are in the same-colored glass. The back feet are in yellow glass; the eyes and ears are in blue glass. There is some discoloration due to weathering, especially around the inside of the mouth and neck.