Sphinx

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A creature is mythically depicted as having a human head and a lion's body. Greek mythology portrays it with a human head, lion haunches, and occasionally bird wings. This treacherous being is known for being merciless, killing those who fail to solve its riddle by devouring them. The deadly version of this creature appears in the myth of Oedipus, unlike the benevolent Egyptian sphinx, which was often shown as a male guardian flanking temple entrances. European decorative art experienced a major revival during the Renaissance, and the image of the sphinx spread to other cultures with varying interpretations due to translations and cultural evolution. Sphinxes are typically associated with architectural structures like royal tombs or temples. The oldest known example was discovered near Gobekli Tepe at Nevali Çori or possibly 120 miles away at Kortik Tepe in Turkey, dating back to around 9,500 BCE.