St. Jerome 1543

"St. Jerome" by Jan van Hemessen, painted in 1543, depicts the iconic figure of the early Church Father in a dramatic pose. The painting, now housed in the Hermitage Museum, Saint Petersburg, captures the saint in a moment of contemplation, surrounded by symbols of his life and work: a skull, books, and a cardinal's hat. The detail of St. Jerome's muscular physique, despite his advanced age, emphasizes his dedication to his faith and scholarship. This Renaissance artwork combines religious themes with realistic portrayal of the human form, capturing the essence of this influential figure in the history of the Church.