Saint Jerome in the Desert
c. 1575
Medium
Engraving on ivory laid paper
Dimensions
47.9 × 34.7 cm (18 7/8 × 13 11/16 in.)
Classification
engraving
Department
Prints and Drawings
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
10173
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Cherubino Alberti’s mastery of illusionistic foreshortening effects is particularly evident in Saint Jerome’s cross, and the hand holding it is reminiscent of Michelangelo’s renowned Creation of Adam fresco. Indeed, in light of his artistic accomplishments, Pope Clement VIII pardoned Alberti of a conviction for murder. The books at Jerome’s feet allude to his translation of the Bible into Latin, which earned Jerome the title of the patron saint of libraries. Jerome was also known for a having a ...
About the Artist
Cherubino Alberti · 1553–1615
Italian Renaissance mural painter, brother of Giovanni. Comment on works: Religious; History; Portraits