Griffins
A griffin is a mythical creature possessing the body of a lion and the head, wings and forelimbs of an eagle. Griffins are considered majestic being since they are composed of both the king of the beasts (the lion) and the king of the birds (the eagle.) Griffins are typically known as the guardians of treasure troves, and are also considered a symbol of divine power. In the Minoan civilization they were depicted as protectors of the throne room.
According to Scythian mythology, Griffins guarded the Scythian steppes (grasslands), a rich source of gold and many gem stones. If visitors tried to gather up the precious gems, the griffins would descend upon them and tear them to pieces.
Griffins are also found in the mythology of ancient Egypt, Persia and Greece. In the Middle Ages, early Christians used the Griffin as a symbol of Jesus Christ – who was both human (like the terrestrial lion) and divine (like the aerial eagle).