Saint Jerome, as the translator of the Bible from Hebrew and Greek to Latin, is the patron of translators. Today, we present an etching created by Albrecht DΓΌrer, depicting him in a serene and contemplative environment, immersed in his work.The scene is set in a well-appointed study, bathed in warm, natural light that streams through a large window, illuminating the interior.
Saint Jerome is seated at his desk, deep in concentration as he writes or translates a text, likely the Vulgate (the Latin translation of the Bible for which he is best known). The composition is rich with symbolic details that enhance the viewer's understanding of Jerome's scholarly and spiritual life.
A notable feature of the engraving is the presence of a lion lying peacefully at Jerome's feet.
This lion is a reference to the legend of Saint Jerome, who, according to tradition, removed a thorn from the paw of a lion, which then became his loyal companion. The lion's calm demeanor in the engraving emphasizes the harmony between the spiritual and natural worlds, as well as the saint's peaceful nature. How cool is it to have such a fluffy friend?Another significant element is the presence of a small, sleeping dog beside the lion.
This inclusion is unusual and has been the subject of much interpretation. The dog may symbolize faithfulness and vigilance, even as it rests in the presence of a much larger and potentially dangerous animal. The coexistence of the lion and the dog, both peacefully at rest, can be seen as a metaphor for the resolution of inner conflict and the tranquility that comes from a life devoted to spiritual pursuits.