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AnswerSymbology and iconography (two different flavors of the same idea) were indeed present in renaissance art. Iconography usually refers to Christian symbols used to identify a character in a painting, while symbology is for more general and often secular purposes.

Icons such as a black robe and knotted rope belt are used identify St. Francis. Often these are combined with stigmata. When you see an angel with a sword in his hand, it is probably Michael. The Lion is used to identify Matthew, the Ox, Luke, the Eagle, John, and so on.

Animal symbols that are not specifically Christian are also used. Off the top of my head, some common ones are:
Dog=fidelity, loyalty
Peacock=immortality
Lion=bravery
Dove=peace, or in Christian symbolism, the soul or the Holy Ghost.

In 2008 a book was published which may shed more light on this. Check your library for "Animals as Disguised Symbols in Renaissance Art" by Simona Cohen. I have not read, nor am I affiliated with this book, but I have seen good reviews of it, and it seems to be the only one on this subject currently available.
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