Saint Jerome at the Arch 1520

This engraving by Sebald Beham, a leading German Renaissance printmaker, depicts Saint Jerome, a prominent figure in the early Church, standing within an arched doorway. Created in 1520, the print showcases Beham's meticulous attention to detail, particularly in the rendering of Saint Jerome’s beard, clothing, and the cityscape in the background. The dramatic use of light and shadow adds depth and contrast to the composition, emphasizing the spiritual aura surrounding the saint. The scene alludes to the traditional depiction of Jerome as a translator of the Bible and scholar, with the inscription "1520" highlighting the significance of his work. The presence of the lion, Jerome's traditional companion, adds a symbolic element to the composition, suggesting the saint's unwavering faith and connection to the divine.