Wooden figure of Saint Damien, twin brother of Saint Cosmas, patron saints of physicians, possibly French
St Damian and his twin brother St Cosmas were physicians who provided medical treatment free of charge in the hope of converting their patients to Christianity. The twins are said to have died for their Christian beliefs in the 300s CE.
St Damian is shown carrying a pestle and mortar used to pound ingredients for drugs, one of the tools of his profession. The brothers are considered by some Christians to be the patron saints of physicians. The statue is carved from wood and was probably used in a church to focus prayer.
Details
- Category:
- Classical & Medieval Medicine
- Collection:
- Sir Henry Wellcome's Museum Collection
- Object Number:
- A136379
- Materials:
- wood
- Measurements:
-
overall: 510 mm x 152 mm x 130 mm, 3.72kg
- type:
- statue
- credit:
- Treanton