The Ankh, sometimes referred to as the Key of Life, is representative of eternal life in Ancient Egypt. It is said to be the first- or original- cross.

The Ankh is often shown in the hands of important Egyptian figures, such as pharaohs and kings, as well as major gods such as Orsiris, Isis, and Ra. They were also traditionally placed in sarcophagi to ensure life after death. 

While the Ankh is a widely known hieroglyph, its origins are somewhat unclear. Because the Ankh shows similarities to the Knot of Isis (a illustration of a knotted piece of cloth), some speculate the two represent the same thing- an intricate bow.