In the Middle Ages, the Antonine hospital order established a Commandery in Issenheim, not far from Colmar. Their vocation was to treat patients suffering from “Saint Anthony’s fire” or “holy fire”, a disease caused by the ingestion of flour contaminated by rye ergot. Located in the high altar of the Commandery church, the altarpiece was intended to help the sick recover by offering them comfort and solace. The Issenheim Altarpiece belongs to the category of double-paneled polyptychs. It is designed to allow three presentations (closed, first opening, second opening).