The Procession of the Church and the Griffin

Dante witnesses a magnificent procession on the other side of Lethe. Seven golden candlesticks lead the way, followed by twenty-four elders crowned with lilies, representing the books of the Old Testament. Then come four animals with six wings each, representing the Evangelists. Between them is a triumphal chariot drawn by a Griffin, symbolizing Christ. Three maidens dance at the right wheel (the theological virtues), and four at the left (the cardinal virtues). Two old men follow, then four humble ones, and finally an old man with a sharp sword. The procession halts before Dante. This elaborate allegory represents the history of the Church and the revelation of Scripture.