# The Capital

Crowning the central pillar of the foot of the cross, the capital, in which the cross was set, is decorated with four mid-body figures. Two represent the Abyss and the centurion Longinus (see these figures), and two others the Sea and the Earth, identified by two inscriptions engraved, just above them, on the upper face of the capital. These two personifications refer to the idea of the cosmos and of Creation, as mentioned at the beginning of Genesis, the first book of the Bible. They are already present on engraved or painted images from the time of Charlemagne (9th century), such as the central ivory plaque on the binding plate of the so-called Metz Gospels (ca. 845-855, Paris, BnF, ms. 9383, https://gallica.bnf.fr/ark:/12148/btv1b550056550.image#). They are an allusion to the cosmic character of the Redemption of mankind, which is mentioned in the Apocalypse of John (Rev. 21:1) and in the letters of St. Paul. The redemption of the mankind is part of a larger drama that concerns the whole cosmos and even God himself, since it is a question of restoring his authority and domination, which were held in check by demonic powers. It began with the revolt of Satan and some of the celestial beings, causing humanity to fall into sin by turning it away from the worship of the true God. It will end at the end of time when God's kingship will be restored by the annihilation of the Powers of Evil and the judgment of the reprobates who have not believed in Christ.

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