Saint Jerome in the Desert

The penitent Saint Jerome, who withdrew to the desert, kneels at the foot of a sculpted image of Christ on the cross. Although the viewer is meant to understand that Jerome prays before a sculpted crucifix, Jerome also appears to be present at the actual Crucifixion.

In his cave lies a lion, the saint's attribute. Three books stand on the shelves, referring to Saint Jerome's scholarly endeavors.