This idea of protective wings surrounding the body was developed throughout the history of dynastic Egypt. The wings were either across the chest, as shown here, or wrapped round the coffin from the sides. A later development was the Rishi or feathered coffin.

One noteable exception from this portrayal on coffins was the relative rarity of coffins decorated with Horus, possibly because the falcon was associated with light airy places or because the influence of Horus was restricted to the Living. However the god Sokaris is often found in funerary art.