Bunionette or artistic convention? Reconsidering fifth toe varus in the Renaissance sculpture Adam by Tullio Lombardo

Purpose The representation of anatomical variations in Renaissance art offers a unique opportunity to explore the historical perception of normality and deformity. This study aims to analyse a previously undescribed anatomical feature in the marble statue of Adam (c. 1490–1495) by Tullio Lombardo. Methods A detailed visual and morphological analysis of the statue was performed, focusing on the lateral aspect of the forefoot. The observed features were compared with current clinical descriptions of bunionette deformity and interpreted within the broader context of Renaissance anatomical representation. Results The statue shows a prominence of the fifth metatarsal head associated with a varus deviation of the fifth toe, consistent with a bunionette (tailor’s bunion). The anatomical precision of Lombardo’s work suggests that this feature is unlikely to be accidental or due to technical limitations, but rather represents a deliberate inclusion within an otherwise idealized figure. Comparable variations in foot anatomy have been reported in other Renaissance artworks. Conclusion Although bunionette deformity is currently associated with mechanical stress and external factors, its presence in an idealized nude figure suggests that such variations may not have been perceived as pathological in their original context. This case highlights the limitations of applying modern diagnostic categories to historical representations and supports the view that minor anatomical variations could be incorporated into Renaissance depictions of the human body without implying disease.