St Jerome in his Study with the Lion 1480

This painting, created in 1480 by an anonymous artist, depicts Saint Jerome in his study, accompanied by a lion. The saint, known for his biblical scholarship, is shown seated with a book and a quill in hand. The presence of the lion is a reference to the legend that Saint Jerome removed a thorn from the lion's paw, symbolizing his taming of wild passions through his devotion to God. The detailed rendering of the figures and the realistic depiction of the study environment showcase the artist's mastery of Northern European painting. This artwork is housed in the Städel Museum and offers a glimpse into the life and work of one of the most important figures of the early Church.