photo copyright Janice Siegel
Sphinxes – note their use as decoration on a ritually significant ceremonial cup (called rhytons, for pouring libations, or liquid offerings to the gods). Sphinxes are only one of many creatures in Greek mythology that are liminal: they blur the distinction between man and beast (or other) and are thus quite frightening. Other liminal creatures include centaurs, satyrs, Amazons, and sirens.