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Ipotane

Sculpture of ipotane, unknown artist and time period

Ipotane 
 

Origin: Ancient Greek mythology

Combination: human + horse

Classification: Mammal

Other Names: Hippotayne, Hippocentaur

Associations: wilderness, violence, warriors

The ipotane is a hybrid creature with the upper body of a horse and the lower body of a human, essentially the reverse of a centaur. Ipotanes are often portrayed as peaceful and gentle creatures, living in harmony with nature. They are associated with the untamed wilderness and are said to possess exceptional knowledge of plants and herbal remedies. In some legends, ipotanes are known to be skilled healers, using their extensive understanding of nature to cure ailments and injuries. They are also sometimes depicted as companions to forest nymphs and satyrs, forming a community of woodland creatures. They are believed to be guardians of the forest, ensuring its preservation and protecting its inhabitants from harm.

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Significant
Literary
Mentions

Classical

• Life of St Anthony the Great  Athanasius of Alexandria 

• The myth of Achilles

 

Medieval

• La Divina Commedia (Inferno) – Dante Alighieri

Listed in Medieval bestiaries

Modern

• Artemis Fowl – Eoin Colfer

• The Chronicles of Narnia – C.S. Lewis

The Harry Potter series – J.K. Rowling

Artistic 
Representations
Throughout
History

Modern
Takes from
Cinema, TV,
& Music
Videos

Centaurs in Modern Media

Centaurs in Modern Media

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