St. Jerome c. 16th century

This sculpture of St. Jerome was crafted by Meister der Hagerenalteren. Standing at approximately 10 inches, it's made of terracotta, a readily available material throughout history. Terracotta is a humble material, but in the hands of a skilled sculptor it can become quite expressive. Notice how the artist has used its inherent properties – its ability to hold fine detail when wet, and to harden permanently when fired – to capture the saint's gaunt features and the texture of his beard. The choice of terracotta speaks volumes. Unlike precious materials like marble or bronze, terracotta was accessible, allowing for the wider dissemination of religious imagery. The original would have been painted, although much of this surface has been lost over time. The modeling of terracotta can be a relatively quick process, allowing for more pieces to be created. In this way, it challenged the traditional hierarchies of art, bringing devotional objects to a broader audience. So, when you look at St. Jerome, consider the skillful making that went into it, and how that making democratized access to art.