When it had been decreed by the Senate, the victorious General entered Rome by the triumphal gate, where he was met by a procession of the entire Senate; here he gave an oration in praise of the valor of his army, and entering his triumphal chariot, the procession began. The order was as follows:—
Musicians, singing and playing. These were chiefly trumpeters, and the singers chanted triumphal songs.
The Senate and Magistrates.
The animals for the sacrifice, usually oxen, with their horns gilt, and decked with garlands, accompanied by the priests.
Music, flute players, to assist at the sacrificial rites.
Wagons, filled with statues, plate, armor, ensigns, etc., the spoil captured from the enemy.
The tribute from various countries, usually golden crowns, or ornaments sent to grace the occasion.
The captive leaders, kings, or generals, with their wives, in chains.
Lictors with the fasces twined with laurel.
Musicians and dancers dressed as Satyrs, crowned with gold. In the midst of these was a mimic, dressed as a female, who by his performance and gestures, insulted and burlesqued the captives.