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Antonello da Messina, 'Saint Jerome in his Study', about 1475

About the work

Overview

Born in the fourth century, Saint Jerome was a scholar and a monk. His translation of the Bible from Greek into Latin is known as the Vulgate, and it is still used by the Catholic Church today.

Antonello offers a peek into the saint’s environment through a fictive stone wall pierced by a broad archway; it’s as though we're looking into a doll’s house. Jerome is in his study at the heart of a lofty, cathedral-like space, its imposing high vaults reflecting the saint’s exalted spirituality and intellect. An array of miniature still lifes – including books, a ceramic vase and a jar – line the study’s shelves.

The artist’s skill in using oil paint enabled him to recreate the texture of these objects, whether rough or shiny, cold or warm. This technical ability, inspired by his study of Netherlandish art, was hugely influential for the artists of Venice, where Antonello made this painting.

Key facts

Details

Full title
Saint Jerome in his Study
Artist dates
active 1456; died 1479
Date made
about 1475
Medium and support
oil on wood
Dimensions
45.7 × 36.2 cm
Acquisition credit
Bought, 1894
Inventory number
NG1418
Location
Not on display
Collection
Main Collection
Frame
17th-century Italian Frame

About this record

If you know more about this painting or have spotted an error, please contact us. Please note that exhibition histories are listed from 2009 onwards. Bibliographies may not be complete; more comprehensive information is available in the National Gallery Library.

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