It resembles and shares common origins with many ancient symbols (which it is often mistaken for), such as the Rod of Asclepius (the ancient Greek sign of medicine), the Caduceus (the ancient Greek symbol related to the god of Alchemy, Hermes ) and the Nehushtan (a Hebrew sign signifying victory over the devil).
The Flamel refers to the mystical and alchemical symbol depicted as a cross with a snake or serpent draped about it, as well as detached wings and a crown above it.
