The Penitence of St. Jerome 1527

Jacopo Pontormo's "The Penitence of St. Jerome" (1527) depicts the iconic figure of the 4th-century saint in a moment of deep contemplation. The painting showcases Pontormo's signature style, characterized by elongated figures and a dramatic use of light and shadow. The emotional intensity of Jerome's pose, his gaze fixed on the ground as he clasps his hand to his chest, evokes the saint's self-flagellation and the torment of his sins. The composition is further amplified by the vibrant red drapery, which frames the figure and underscores the dramatic tension. This powerful portrayal of St. Jerome is a testament to Pontormo's skill as a painter and his ability to capture the psychological complexities of religious devotion.