St. Cosmas or St. Damian (?)

Unknown

ca. 1470 · Sandstone · The Cloisters

Although the conspicuous paunch and heavy money bag suggest a wealthy burgher, this sculpture may represent Saint Cosmos and Saint Damian. Third century twin brothers who were doctors, they were held in special esteem because they never charged for their services. In western European tradition, the brothers joined Saint Luke as patron saints of physicians and surgeons and are often shown in art carrying their surgical instruments. Perhaps the bag this figure carries was for his instruments.

Artist

Unknown

Date

ca. 1470

Medium

Sandstone

Culture

French

Department

The Cloisters

Credit line

Rogers Fund, 1906