The iconography and function of winged gods in Egypt during the Græco-Roman period

Abstract EN

This research analyzes the iconography and function of winged gods in Græco-Roman Egypt.

“Wind deities” appeared as winged scarabs or winged four-headed rams.

Osiris was also represented in the shape of a winged scarab, a winged sun disc, or a winged mummy.Harpokrateswas figured with wings on magical stelae and gems.

The winged solar disc of Horus Behdety decorates the façade of the Egyptian temples.

Moreover, Seth appeared in the form of a winged god in the temple of Hibis.

Bes is depictedwith wings on amulets and statuettes.

The winged sphinxof Tutu was used to ward off demons.

God Chnoubisis also depicted as a winged goat-headed scarab in the Egyptian art.

The Greek god Eros appeared as a winged boy on the walls of Stagni tomb in KomEl-Shokafa.

Hypnos, the Greek god of sleep, is depicted as a winged youth on Ariadne sarcophagus.

The wings of the Egyptian gods spring from their arms or sides unlike the wings of Greek gods which spring only from their backs.

The shape of the Egyptian winged gods was employed in protective and magical purposes.

On the other hand, Greek gods inspired their winged iconography from their mythic roles