Italian school (XVIII) - San Gerolamo penitente

The "Italian school (XVIII) - San Gerolamo penitente" is a religious artwork from the 18th century Italian tradition depicting Saint Jerome in penance. Saint Jerome, a prominent Christian scholar known for translating the Bible into Latin (the Vulgate), is often shown as a hermit in contemplation and repentance in the wilderness. Italian Baroque and Rococo artists frequently portrayed him with traditional iconographic elements such as a skull, a lion, and the Bible to emphasize themes of mortality and devotion. Paintings of penitents like San Gerolamo were intended to inspire viewers toward spiritual reflection and humility, reflecting the strong religious culture and artistic mastery present in 18th-century Italy.