A winged ox, a sleeping dog, a sly cat, a white lamb, a lion, an bull—all are delightfully decorative to the average viewer. For medieval painters, animals were part of a rich visual symbolism. Paintings from the medieval period are rich in mystical and divinely inspired symbolism. In a culture of restricted literacy symbolic imagery was vital in helping to spiritually enlighten the common folk. Narrative paintings, with their layer upon layer of symbolism, provided instruction to the uneducated peasants who craved scriptural knowledge.  Paintings throughout Western history were used as guides in illuminating the divine mysteries of Church doctrine. Animals of every sort are prominently featured  in painting from the medieval era.

medieval paintings are rich in Biblically themed animal symbolism.

Dolphin -  sign of the resurrection and  symbolizes Christ  guiding Christians to heaven.

Winged Ox -  represents Luke the Evangelist, one of the four evangelist. 

Ox -  symbolizes strength, power, humility "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.  Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is easy and my burden is light" Matt.  11:28

Unicorn, a symbol of purity, unity, nourishment of the soul

Pig - symbolizes  material desires, hedonism and lack of inhibition.

Dog - a symbol of loyalty, sincerity, dependability and faithfulness

winged lion -  represents Mark the Evangelist, one of the four evangelist. 

White Horse - a symbol of triumph, conquest, goodness  and invincibility. "And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war. " -- Revelation 19:11

Ermine -  symbolizes honorableness, fidelity, mischief making.  Often associated with the aristocracy or royalty. 

Bull - symbol of antagonism, sovereignty, and affluence.

Cat -  symbolizes shrewdness, treachery, trickery and watchfulness. Often associated with Satan, witchcraft or sorcery.

Eagle - represents John the Evangelist, one of the four Evangelist.   The eagle also the symbolizes  the resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Winged Lion -  represents Mark the Evangelist, one of the four evangelist. 

Lion - a symbol of power, majesty, wisdom, tyranny,  viciousness, dignity, and leadership. The lion represents both Jesus Christ as well as Satan, a wise king or a tyrant.

Lamb - symbolizes  humility, peace, and innocence.  The lamb represents Christ as the Lamb, and also Christians as the flock.

Early Christian Symbols