Polychrome Wood Statue - Saint Jerome And The Lion - Polychrome Sculpture - Spanish School

Late 18th century Spain Beautiful polychrome wooden sculpture of Saint Jerome, made by a Spanish school at the end of the 18th century, combining expressiveness, realism and a deep spiritual scope. Saint Jerome is depicted standing, draped in an intense red cloak, symbol of the Passion of Christ, leaving his torso uncovered. The saint, a major figure of Christianity and Father of the Latin Church, is here accompanied by his lion, faithful companion according to the famous legend. • Bodily marks: On his torso, a bloody wound at the heart evokes his ascetic practices and his deep commitment to penance. These marks also recall the use of a hair shirt and a stone, symbols of bodily mortification to tame the passions and draw closer to God. • Singular details: The sculpture is distinguished by its sulphide eyes, a rare and precious detail, which reinforces the intensity of Jerome's gaze and contributes to the emotion that emerges from the work. Historical and spiritual context: Saint Jerome (347-420), a doctor of the Church, is venerated for his essential role in the translation of the Bible into Latin (the Vulgate). Retired in the desert, he led a life of hermitage and penance. According to hagiographic accounts, he used a stone to strike his chest as a sign of repentance, an ascetic practice aimed at taming his impulses and purifying himself spiritually. The story of the lion is one of the most famous: one day, a lion wounded in the paw approached Jerome. The saint, moved by his charity, removed a thorn from the animal's foot. In gratitude, the lion became his faithful protector and followed him until the end of his life. • The lion: A symbol of strength and loyalty, it represents the domination of the spirit over animality. Here, it stands at Jerome's feet, emphasizing the submission of wild nature to divine wisdom. • Penance marks and accessories: The visible traces on the torso and stomach recall the use of a cilice (belt or garment of rough fabric worn next to the skin), as well as the wounds caused by the stone. These details reflect a Spanish Baroque interpretation where suffering and redemption are highlighted to arouse devotion. • Condition: Original polychromy, with some losses, particularly on one arm, but retaining a striking charm and strong expressiveness. • Dimensions: Height: 26 cm Delivery: ALL DELIVERIES ARE MADE BY DHL EXPRESS ONLY.