The Sphinx is a mythological creature of Greek origin that has the head of a woman, the body of a lion and the wings of a bird. In myth she is ruthless and treacherous and will kill those who do not know how to answer her riddle.
Unlike the Greek Sphinx, the Egyptian Sphinx is shown as male and is benevolent with ferocious strength. Sphinxes are considered guardians and often flanked the entrance to temples.