Saints Rocco and Romanee in the view of the town Deruta 1478

Pietro Perugino painted this artwork of Saints Rocco and Romanee in the view of the town Deruta, during a time when plague was a persistent threat. Saints Rocco and Romanee stand as protectors against disease. The intersection of religious belief and social vulnerability is evident in this piece. Rocco’s exposed thigh reveals a suppurating wound, a sign of the plague he contracted while ministering to the sick. His willingness to suffer mirrors the experiences of those afflicted by the disease. To me, Rocco’s figure resonates as a symbol of empathy and sacrifice amid widespread fear. This painting transcends traditional religious iconography, and speaks to the real, lived experiences of the people of Deruta. The town depicted at the bottom grounds the saints within a specific community, reinforcing their role as local protectors. Through his compassionate portrayal of Rocco, Perugino invites us to reflect on the human capacity for care and resilience in times of crisis.