Saint Jerome

About this work

This is a black-and-white etching of Saint Jerome in his study. He sits bent over a desk lit by a single candle, old books and a skull scattered around. The light cuts sharp shadows across his face and robe. The artist used etching here, scratching lines into metal, then inking and pressing the paper. It gives the scene a rough, almost grainy texture. You can see the scratches clearly in the darkest areas. This technique feels close to Rembrandt’s prints. Look for more of Rembrandt’s etchings at the National Gallery of Art, Washington.