Canopy

The canopy, in general, is an ornamental covering of cloth, stone, wood, or metal, used to crown an altar, throne, pulpit, statue, etc. In liturgical language, the term is commonly employed to designate

• the structure covering an altar, formerly fitted with curtains and supported on four pillars;
• the covering suspended over the throne occupied by dignitaries of the Church or princes;
• the covering under which the Blessed Sacrament is sometimes borne in processions etc.