Artwork

The Dream of Saint Jerome

The Dream of Saint Jerome, by Matteo di Giovanni, tempera, 1476
The Dream of Saint Jerome, by Matteo di Giovanni, tempera, 1476

The Dream of Saint Jerome is a tempera painting by the Early Renaissance artist Matteo di Giovanni. It dates from 1476 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.

About this work

Overview

The Dream of Saint Jerome is a tempera painting on panel depicting a pivotal moment in the life of Saint Jerome, a scholar known for translating the Bible into Latin.

Subject & Meaning

The painting illustrates a dream in which Saint Jerome is chastised by a heavenly council for prioritizing classical texts over the Christian Bible, highlighting his inner conflict.

Technique & Style

Executed in tempera on panel, the work showcases the artist's skill in rendering detailed, dramatic scenes, with the heavenly council being a particularly striking element.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Matteo di Giovanni

Artist

Matteo di Giovanni

Matteo di Giovanni (1435–1495) was an artist, born in Sansepolcro.