Saint Jerome

The panel could be the side of a triptych representing the Virgin and Child, Saint Prosper and Saint Jerome, made for the church of San Prospero in Cremona. Following the dismemberment of the triptych, traces of the central panel have been lost, while the one depicting Saint Prosper is currently in a private collection in London. The two panels with the figures of the saints are mirrored for the lowered perspective point, for the pose of the body, for the cut of the face and again for the same backdrop and for the natural elements. Saint Jerome has a concentrated attitude and the expression on his face is grim and thoughtful; the light comes from the left and lingers on the broad forehead, white beard, torso, shoulder and leg bent to the ground. The folds of the stiffly profiled cloak light up with flashes: the effect is scenographic and increases the intensity of the character. The brushstroke, related to both Venetian and Nordic influences, is generous and luminous.