In ancient Greek iconography the aegis is a characteristic symbol of the goddess Athena. It is a mantle made of the skin of a goat (aix) which covers her shoulders and chest. It usually has a Gorgoneion (Medusa head) in the centre and a fringe of coiling snakes. The Egyptian aegis was a kind of wide beaded collar with animal or bird heads at the ends. It is depicted in the iconography and was used as an honorary gift or a votive or funerary offering.