Saint Jerome in Penitence
Drawing on paper • Circle of Palma il Giovane (Jacopo Negretti) or Venetian School
Style & Movement
Late Mannerism / Early Baroque (Venetian School)
Medium & Technique
Pen and brown ink with brown wash over black chalk or graphite underdrawing
Creation Period
Late 16th to early 17th Century (c. 1580–1620)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 25 x 20 cm; Portrait orientation
Subject Description
Depiction of Saint Jerome in a moment of spiritual ecstasy or penitence, shown in profile clutching a crucifix. The inclusion of a trumpet in the upper left corner symbolizes the Last Judgment. The composition emphasizes anatomical detail in the neck and hands, characteristic of late Mannerist studies of the human form.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair to Good. Visible horizontal fold or crease across the middle; some staining and acidification of the paper support.
Estimated Market Value
$3,000 - $6,000 USD
Auction Estimate
$2,500 - $4,500 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; appears to be an Old Master study likely from a larger collection of drawings. No specific collector stamps are visible in this view.
Art Historical Significance
An excellent example of Venetian late Mannerist draftsmanship. The style of flickering pen work and deep wash is highly reminiscent of the prolific output of Palma il Giovane, whose workshop dominated Venice after the deaths of Titian and Tintoretto.
Notable Features
Dramatic use of chiaroscuro through ink wash; expressive, wiry line work describing the aged anatomy of the saint; distinctive 'trumpet of doom' iconography in the upper left.
Condition Issues
Visible horizontal crease/tear through the center, significant foxing/discoloration in the upper right, and possible trimming of the edges.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional deacidification by a paper conservator; archival mounting using acid-free materials and UV-protective glass; climate-controlled storage to prevent further foxing.
Collector Notes
Saint Jerome. Pen wash