The sphinx is a mythological figure with the body of a lion and the head of a human, falcon, or goat, often with wings. It used to be associated with structures such as royal tombs and temples. In ancient Egypt, the sphinx, usually placed near pyramids, symbolized protection and blessing for the pharaoh in the afterlife. The Great Sphinx of Giza, with a leonine body and a pharaoh's head, is the most famous in Egypt. Sphinges, with heads of pharaohs or deities, probably highlighted the connection of pharaohs with Sekhmet, the lioness goddess. Known examples include the sphinx of Hatshepsut in the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the one from Memphis. A symbol of Egypt, the Great Sphinx appears on seals and coins.
