The Alabaster Sphinx: Memphis’s Majestic Guardian

The Alabaster Sphinx of Memphis is a colossal ancient Egyptian statue, carved from a single block of calcite alabaster, currently displayed at the Memphis Open-Air Museum. Dating to the New Kingdom (likely the 18th Dynasty), it measures about 8 meters (26 ft) long and is one of the largest monuments ever made from this material. It features the body of a lion and a human head, serving as a powerful guardian. Although it has no inscription, its style suggests it may represent Pharaoh Amenhotep II or Queen Hatshepsut.