Saint Jerome in His Study (Dürer)

Saint Jerome in his Study ( 1514) is one of the three master engravings of Albrecht Dürer (see: Knight, Death and the Devil and Melencolia I). This stitch is also characterized by a variety of symbols from the iconography. " Enclosur " is an outdated word for house or room and study.

Image content and symbolism

St. Jerome sits on the screen background on a desk. The table is a typical for the Renaissance cheeks table. In a corner of the table is a Kalvarienkreuz. If we take from the head of Jerome on the cross a line, the viewer's gaze is directed to the skull next to the window and thus these two objects - the resurrection and death - associated with each other. The question remains open for the viewer, whether ultimately conquers death or life.

In the foreground there is a lion, traditionally a part of the iconography of Jerome, and a slumbering dog. Both are part of the traditional by the Legenda aurea Stories of Jerome. In Dürer's images of the dog is probably the animal usually represented.

Note the fine detail and elaboration. The picture is full of small objects that capture the viewer's attention and are typical of the northern Renaissance and Dürer.

Interpretation

One common interpretation according to represent the three master engravings, three different ways of life dar. Jerome stands for the contemplative life of the monk who gained from study and meditation wisdom.

  • Graphic by Albrecht Dürer
  • Holy picture
  • Musée Condé
230296
de