During the time of the New Kingdom of Egypt (1570-1069 BCE), the Sphinx was recognized because of the Egyptians as Horemakhet (Horus on the Horizon) along with a cult grew up round the statue associating it with the god Horus. A 'cult' in ancient Egypt really should be recognized together https://www.luxreisen.net/blog/wo-steht-die-sphinx-in-%C3%A4gypten