Heilige Hieronymus 1561

Philips Galle made this engraving, "Heilige Hieronymus," in the late 16th century. It depicts Saint Jerome, a key figure in the history of the Catholic Church, known for translating the Bible into Latin. The image, produced in the Netherlands, reflects the cultural and religious context of the time. Jerome, a gaunt figure, sits at his desk with a skull, a symbol of mortality, while a lion rests peacefully beside him. This juxtaposition creates a powerful visual statement. The lion is included because, according to legend, Jerome removed a thorn from a lion's paw, and the animal remained his loyal companion thereafter. Galle's print would have been part of a larger market for devotional images. By studying the engraving’s visual elements, and understanding the social and religious environment in which it was made, we can appreciate the role of art in shaping cultural values and beliefs. Investigating the production and distribution of prints in the Netherlands during this time would give further insight.