This small carved dog embodies the ancient Egyptians’ love for domesticated animals. The figure, measuring 18 centimeters in length, was crafted from ivory by an unknown artisan between 1390 and 1352 B.C.
Previously, this “barking” dog belonged to Howard Carter, the Egyptologist who discovered the tomb of Tutankhamun in 1922. The little dog was found in one of the tombs from the New Kingdom period (1550–1070 B.C.). Today, this rare artifact is housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City.
The toy features a lever that allows the carved dog to snap its jaws, revealing a red tongue, as it appears to jump into the air. According to The Met, the lever was originally held in place by a piece of leather cord threaded through small holes. However, over time, the cord was replaced with a metal pin secured to the dog’s shoulder, as reported by Live Science.
What else is known about this exhibit?
It remains unclear exactly where Howard Carter found the figure. However, the Metropolitan Museum suggests that the ivory dog may have been placed in an elite tomb during the reign of Amenhotep III, the grandfather of Pharaoh Tutankhamun, in the 14th century B.C. Scholars debate the purpose of this artifact: it could have served as a toy or a magical ceremonial object.
The figure serves as a reminder that dogs were beloved pets around 3,400 years ago. While some were used for hunting, herding livestock, or as guard dogs, many were simply cherished companions. This sculpture likely depicts a domesticated dog, as the carved lines around its neck form a collar, explained museum curator Catherine Rerick.
During the New Kingdom (1550–1070 B.C.), dog collars became increasingly elaborate. It was not uncommon to find the dog’s name inscribed on them.
The breed of the ivory dog remains unclear. However, as noted by the Metropolitan Museum, ancient Egyptians favored energetic breeds.
These animals were also associated with Anubis, the god of the afterlife. Dogs were often seen as intermediaries between the worlds of the living and the dead. Killing a dog—especially one wearing a collar—was considered a serious crime. Families mourned their pets just as they would a deceased relative. Moreover, ancient Egyptians believed they would reunite with their dogs in the afterlife. It’s no wonder they mummified dogs and buried them in special cemeteries for domesticated animals.