The Creatures on the Wheel

[anagogy]

I see the left-side creature as a repeat image of the devil in card 15.  

Both creatures are open in their third-eye chakras (see flames).

The right side (STO) figure ascends the wheel.

The left side figure (STS) descends.

Both figures cling to the wheel.  The right side figure appears to be entangled in it.  But to achieve that carefully balanced platform above and the ennobled lion, the right hand seeker must untangle and let go of that wheel.  The figure must also deal with that spear.  I assume it represents the pain that comes from the"dark night of the soul."  

The inner snakes are the various events and catalysts that beset the figures on the wheel.  All these events have a nobel or spiritual purpose (they are all snakes and the spirit that implies).

All the figures are above the winged orb at the bottom of the image; these are spiritual images all, not literal or physical creatures.  (Else, the winged orb would be at the top of the card and all the figures "below" it.)

Ricdaw's interpretation of these creatures parallels my own very closely.

The descending demonic/devilish/dark angel represents negative influences on the wheel of destiny and the right being represents positive angelic forces on the wheel of destiny.

They exist in perpetual dynamic and magnetic tension, being of equal influence, both having a grip on the wheel, the tipping point on the wheel is decided by the influencee themself, whom chooses which influence to align to (polarity).