St. Cosmas or St. Damian (?)

French

Not on view

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.

St. Cosmas or St. Damian (?), Sandstone, French

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