Memphis - Sphinx

Immediately northeast of the building containing the Figure of Ramesses II is a large and well preserved alabaster Sphinx, excavated in 1912, which may have stood outside the south entrance to the Temple of Ptah. It is 26ft/8m long and 13ft/4m high and weighs 80 tons. On stylistic grounds it is dated to the 18th or 19th Dynasty. Beside the sphinx is a stela, originally found close to the second of the colossal statues of Ramesses II, recording a decree issued by King Apries, in the rounded pediment of which are figures of Ptah (left) and the falcon headed Sokar (right). The inscription lists the lands and personnel belonging to the Temple of Ptah and grants them exemption from tax.