Lombardic work. The fine hexagonal baptismal font is attributed to the thirteenth century, but the carved heads and vine suggest an earlier date. The same period is accorded to the very beautiful marble pulpit standing at the entrance to the choir. It is square in shape, supported by four columns, two of which rest on the backs of grotesque Lombard lions struggling with savage beasts, symbolic of Divine power overcoming evil; the capitals are boldly sculptured in foliage and animal forms. On the front is a serious crowned figure holding the Book, above it the eagle serving as lectern. On the corner toward the altar a sculptured figure bends to support another reading-desk. Altogether this pulpit may be reckoned among the most interesting ones of Tuscany. [Illustration: _M. M. Newell_ DETAIL OF PULPIT, PARISH CHURCH OF BRANCOLI] [Illustration: _Alinari_ PULPIT (13TH CENTURY), S. MARIA E S. GIORGIO, BRANCOLI] Finally, added to its many attractions, the church contains a fine and unusual piece of Della Robbia terra-cotta, the work of Andrea and his son Giovanni. Miss Cruttwell writes: "This romantic scene--I had almost said painting, 'St. George Slaying the Dragon'--is one of the best pictorial works." It is probably the only instance of an attempt by Andrea to represent a horse, and it is undeniably stiff and indifferently modelled. The princess in the background also is rather heavy, but the grace and action of the youthful rider and the beauty and radiance of his expression are remarkable. The frame, probably the work of Giovanni, consists of garlands upheld by winged cherubs, with graceful candelabra and medallions characteristic of the artist. We left the church of Santa Maria e San Giorgio with regret, but with a sense of complete satisfaction with our day among the hills and temples of Brancoli. "Sundaies the pillars are On which heav'ns palace arched lies, The other days fill up the spare And hollow room with vanities." --HERBERT. [Illustration: COATS OF ARMS OF LUCCA] [Illustration: _Alinari_ _Andrea and Giov. della Robbia_ ST. GEORGE AND THE DRAGON, S. MARIA E S. GIORGIO BRANCOLI] BARGA AND THE VALLEY OF GARFAGNANA [Illustration] BARGA AND THE VALLEY OF GARFAGNANA [Illustration] Brancoli's Hill commands a view of the Serchio River and its extensive valley, called the Garfagnana, which lies between the Apennines, defining the northern boundary of Tuscany, and the Alpi Apuane range, which follows the direction of the coast, and contains several lofty peaks, the highest rising over six thousand feet.