Saint Jerome Reading 1490

Giovanni Bellini’s “Saint Jerome Reading” from 1490 depicts the biblical figure of Saint Jerome in a cave, lost in contemplation over a book. The artist utilizes the setting of a natural landscape to reinforce the saint’s devotion to solitude and study. Jerome's focus on his reading is disrupted by the presence of a white rabbit, which acts as a symbol of purity and humility, two of Jerome’s defining qualities. The distant cityscape, a detail that suggests Jerome’s place in a broader context, adds a sense of depth and visual interest to the composition. This work showcases Bellini’s mastery of oil painting, capturing the light and textures of both the saint and his surroundings with great precision.