Fabuland Hippo - Hanna Hippopotamus, with Necklace

Hanna Hippopotamus represents the later, more character-driven years of Fabuland. By the time this necklace-wearing hippo appeared in 1987, the theme had developed far beyond simple animal figures into a recognizable cast with occupations, relationships, homes, vehicles, books, and even the animated Edward and Friends series. Her molded head and decorative necklace show how Fabuland used sculpting and costume details to communicate personality long before highly printed modern minifigures became the norm. She is a small artifact from one of LEGO's earliest attempts at sustained world-building.