News and Stories

Priceless hippo table and original kiss painting could be yours!

CINCINNATI, OH (November 1, 2021) — SAVE the DATE! Everyone’s favorite hippo Fiona will be 5 on January 24, and you can be a part of Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden’s birthday celebration.  Each $5 birthday gift comes with an invitation to attend Fiona’s virtual birthday party and a chance to win the “Fiona, Table for 5” grand prize that includes renowned-artist Mark Stoddart’s world-famous hippo table* and an original kiss painting by Fiona.

“Fiona has fans all over the world, and we want to open her party up to everyone,” said Cincinnati Zoo director Thane Maynard. “Plus, planning an outdoor celebration in January is risky!  A virtual celebration is the perfect way to include everyone.”

A $20 birthday gift includes an invitation to the party and 5 chances to win the grand prize!  All proceeds from the birthday celebration will support the Zoo and Rare Gem Talent School, an organization for children with dyslexia based in Fiona’s native land and close to the table artist’s heart.

Grand Prize Includes:

• one-of-a-kind hippo table by Mark Stoddart (artist will cover shipping costs)
• certificate of authenticity and a
• framed copy of the table’s story
• an original Fiona kiss painting.

All birthday gifts for “Fiona, Table for 5” must be purchased by Jan. 22, 2022 at 11:59 PM. Drawing for the table will be held on Fiona’s Birthday, January 24, 2022, and the winner will be announced during her virtual Birthday celebration.

*The table made the news in 2014 when a hotel to which the artist had loaned the table refused to return it.  Media coverage led to public outcry to return the “hostage hippos.” Read the backstory.

Childhood Coffee Table

With this design, Stoddart has captured the contentment of Motherhood. The stance of the Mother Hippo immediately shows the protectiveness of the parent whilst the face gives the feeling of a proud parent. The baby is sleeping, snuggled beside its happy Mum.

The glass representing the water is secured onto the Mother and baby in two places, the glass is protected from the bolts by handmade PTF gromits with particular details to safety.

Glass Size: 54 inches x 36 inches