The 2nd edition (1777–84) of Encyclopædia Britannica (hopefully now in public domain) describes the meaning of each of the figures in the alto/bas relief by Danish sculptor Caius Gabriel Cibber:
The first female figure represents London sitting in ruins, in a languishing posture, with her head dejected, her hair disheveled, and her hand carelessly lying on her sword. Behind is Time, gradually raising her up: at her side is a woman touching her with one hand, whilst a winged scepter in the other directs her to regard the goddesses in the clouds; one with a cornucopia, denoting Plenty; the other with a palm branch, the emblem of Peace. At her feet is a bee-hive, showing, that by industry and application the greatest misfortunes are to be overcome. Behind the figure of Time are citizens exulting at his endeavors to restore her; and beneath, in the midst of the ruins, is a dragon, who, as the supporter of the city-arms, with his paw endeavors to preserve the same.
Opposite to the city, on an elevated pavement, stands the king, in a Roman habit, with a laurel on his head, and a truncheon in his hand; and approaching her, commands three of his attendants to descend to her relief. The first represents the Sciences, with a winged head, and circle of naked boys dancing thereon; and holding Nature in her hand, with her numerous breasts, ready to give assistance to all. The second is Architecture, with a plan in one hand, and a square and pair of compasses in the other; and the third is Liberty, waving a hat in the air, showing her joy at the pleasing prospect of the city’s speedy recovery. Behind the king stands his brother the duke of York, with a garland in one hand to crown the rising city, and a sword in the other for her defense.
The two figures behind are Justice and Fortitude; the former with a coronet, and the latter with a reined lion; and under the royal pavement lies Envy, gnawing a heart, and incessantly emitting pestiferous fumes from her mouth. On the plinth the reconstruction of the city is represented by builders and laborers at work upon houses.
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