De heilige Hieronymus 1516 - 1583

This engraving of Saint Jerome was created by an anonymous artist, and printed around 1516 in the Netherlands. The image depicts a biblical story that reflects the religious fervor of the time. Jerome's kneeling position, halo, and association with the lion are visual cues of his sainthood, deeply embedded in the visual culture of the early 16th century. The detailed natural landscape situates Jerome within a specific geographic and spiritual context, mirroring the increasing interest in the natural world during the Renaissance. We can trace the rising influence of humanism, which sought to reconcile classical knowledge with Christian teachings. This print reflects a broader societal shift towards personal piety and the veneration of biblical figures. Understanding the historical reception and cultural context of this engraving requires us to engage with theological texts, art historical scholarship, and studies of religious practices in the Netherlands at the time. The meaning of art is contingent on social and institutional contexts.