The Sphinx is an image of a recumbent lion with the head of a human being. A major part of Egyptian history and mythology, the Sphinx can also be seen existing in many other cultures of the world. The Great Sphinx of Giza, with the Pyramid of Khafre serving as the background, symbolizes the very spirit of Egypt.
 
In Egyptian mythology, the Sphinx is considered the guardian of the Egyptian statuary. Here, sphinxes come in three forms, namely, Androsphinx (body of a lion and human head), Criosphinx (lion’s body and ram’s head) and Hierocosphinx (lion’s body with the head of a hawk or falcon). 

The Sphinx in Greek mythology is a demon of bad luck and destruction, depicted as a winged lion with a woman’s head. Yet other versions of the Sphinx can be found in South and South-East Asia.

Seen here is a beautiful Plaster of Paris sculpture of the typical Egyptian Sphinx, its whole attitude radiating royalty and majesty.