Artwork
Saint Jerome (c.347–420)
Saint Jerome (c.347–420) is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Simon Vouet. It dates from 1620 and is held in the collection of the National Library of Wales.
About this work
Overview
This oil painting, created by Simon Vouet in 1620, is a representation of Saint Jerome. It is an example of early Baroque Italian art and is currently held in the National Library of Wales.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts Saint Jerome from the chest up, lost in contemplation with his eyes cast upward. His facial expression and posture convey a sense of introspection and spiritual focus.
Technique & Style
The use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and volume, with the subject's warm, earthy tones emerging from a dark and shadowy background. The subtle gradations of tone and the rendering of the subject's beard and hair in shades of brown and gray add to the overall effect.
History & Provenance
Simon Vouet, a French painter trained in Italy, produced this work as part of his output of religious paintings. He later became a prominent figure in French art, introducing Italian Baroque style to France as Premier peintre du Roi under Louis XIII.
Artist & collection
Artist
Simon Vouet (French pronunciation: ; 9 January 1590 – 30 June 1649) was a French painter who studied and rose to prominence in Italy before being summoned by Louis XIII to serve as Premier peintre du Roi in France.
