Saints Cosmas and Damian (Greek: Κοσμάς και Δαμιανός) (also written Kosmas and Damianos) (died ca. 287) were twin brothers, physicians, and early Christian martyrs born in Cilicia, part of today's Turkey. They practiced their profession in the seaport of Ayas, Adana, then in the Roman province of Syria. Accepting no payment for their services led to them being named "Ανάργυροι" (Unmercenary); it has been said that, by this, they attracted many to the Christian faith. During the persecution under Diocletian, Cosmas and Damian were arrested by order of the Prefect of Cilicia, who ordered them under torture to recant. However, according to legend they stayed true to their faith, enduring being hung on a cross, stoned and shot by arrows and finally suffered execution by beheading. Traditionally, Saints Cosmas and Damian are the holy patrons of doctors and persons of Medical profession.
The Dormition of the Most Holy Mother of God is a Great Feast of the Eastern Orthodox Church (corresponding to the Western feast of the Assumption) which commemorates the "falling asleep" or death of the Mother of God, and her bodily resurrection before being taken up into Heaven. The Theotokos is depicted lying on a bier, surrounded by the twelve Apostles. At the center, flanked by angels, Jesus Christ is shown swaddling the soul of the Virgin Mary. On the lower center, the assault of the High Priest is depicted in which the Jewish priest's hands were cut off by the Archangel Michael after he unsuccessfully tried to overturn Mary's brier.
Provenance:
- The Virginia House Museum, Richmond, Virginia.
- The Collection of Ambassador and Mrs. Alexander Weddell, Richmond, Virginia.
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