Between birth and death, many of life's most critical moments occur in hospital, and they deserve to take place in surroundings that match their significance. In this spirit, from the early renaissance through to the modern period, artists have made immensely powerful work in hospitals across the western world, enhancing the environments where patients and medical staff strive towards better health.

Introduction -- Salvation in Siena -- Madonna of mercy -- The Harrowing of Hell -- Rescuing the orphans -- Blood of the martyrs -- The burning sickness -- Portraying the patients -- Visions of redemption -- The anatomists knife and regents charity.