“St. Jerome In His Study (Without Cardinal’s Robes)” is a religious painting by Albrecht Durer, a renowned artist of the Northern Renaissance. The artwork is part of the collection at the Kupferstichkabinett in Berlin, Germany.
This artwork depicts St. Jerome, the Christian scholar and translator known for his translation of the Bible into Latin (the Vulgate), engrossed in his studies. The setting is a tranquil, well-ordered study, which communicates a sense of peaceful scholarly work. St. Jerome is seated, with one hand on a book on the desk and the other resting on his cheek in a reflective pose. His environment is filled with objects symbolizing his intellectual and ascetic life, including books, a skull on the desk reminding viewers of the transience of life, and a crucifix which stands out in the composition, reflecting his devotion.
The drawing is detailed, showcasing Durer’s skill in rendering textures and creating a feeling of depth through the use of light and shadow. As an engraving, the artwork captures the essence of the Northern Renaissance with its emphasis on detail, realism, and the integration of religious themes with everyday objects, promoting the idea that the divine can be found in the details of daily life. The lack of Cardinal’s robes suggests a focus on the personal and intellectual aspects of St. Jerome’s character, rather than his status within the church hierarchy.
