Hippogriffs are mythical creatures that have the front half of an eagle and the back half of a horse. They are often depicted as large, majestic beings capable of flight. The concept of the hippogriff originated in the 16th century, notably in the works of the Italian poet Ludovico Ariosto. In literature and popular culture, hippogriffs symbolize nobility and loyalty. They are often portrayed as proud and intelligent creatures, making them popular in fantasy stories, including the Harry Potter series, where they are featured as magical beings that can be ridden by wizards and witches.