The Ankh, a key-shaped hieroglyph, represents "life" and is a core ancient Egyptian symbol for immortality and divine power. Appearing in art, tombs, and texts, it symbolizes both mortal life and the afterlife, often depicted as a key of life held by gods, conferring existence upon pharaohs. The symbol embodies life, fertility, the sun, and the breath of life, frequently placed in tombs and on sarcophagi to ensure eternal life.