Artwork
Saint Jerome in Penitence
Saint Jerome in Penitence is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Italian 16th Century. It dates from 1508 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. This engraving depicts Saint Jerome in a state of penitence, set against a detailed, layered landscape.
About this work
Overview
This engraving depicts Saint Jerome in a state of penitence, set against a detailed, layered landscape. The composition features the saint as an old man, clad in a heavy robe, leaning on a staff amidst rocky terrain, with a distant town and natural elements in the background.
Subject & Meaning
The subject, Saint Jerome, is portrayed in a penitent state, emphasizing themes of solitude, reflection, and religious devotion. The contrast between the serene, distant town and Jerome's rugged, isolated setting may symbolize the choice between worldly life and spiritual retreat.
Technique & Style
The engraving utilizes cross-hatching, a technique involving scratching tiny, layered lines into metal to achieve depth, shadows, and texture. This method is evident in the detailed rendering of the saint's robe, the rocky landscape, and the atmospheric background.
History & Provenance
No specific historical or provenance details are provided for this engraving, highlighting the need for further attribution or contextual information to understand its creation and ownership history.
Context
Created using a traditional printmaking method, this work reflects the artistic practices of its time, where engraving was valued for its ability to produce detailed, reproducible images. The depiction of Saint Jerome aligns with the religious themes common in European art of the period.
Legacy
While the engraving's direct impact or influence is not specified, it contributes to the broader legacy of Saint Jerome's representation in art history, alongside works by notable artists who have depicted this subject across various mediums and styles.
Artist & collection
Artist
A 16th-century Italian sculptor left us small bronze works in dark brown and gold.
Saint Christopher at the Border of a River
The Death of Hercules
Saint Jerome
Saint John the Baptist
The Flagellation
Saint Jerome in the Wilderness
Christ on the Mount of Olives
The Man of Sorrows with Arms Outstretched
Saint Francis of Assisi
The Man of Sorrows Standing by the Column
Christ on the Mount of Olives
Saint Jerome