Here are some paintings that show just Jerome and the lion. Each being is shown in an act of trust toward the other -- each trusts the other not to hurt him.
St. Jerome removing the thorn, c. 1453, by Lianori (if photo does not appear, click on re-load) St. Jerome removing the thorn, c. 1450, by Rogier van der Weyden St. Jerome removing the thorn, c. 1485, by Hans Memling
Thank you so much for these variations on the theme of St. Jerome and the Lion. So many beautiful paintings.
Posted by: am | March 11, 2012 at 09:01 PM
AM, I so appreciate your comments. These paintings have become quite dear to me, but I was very unsure whether anyone else would share that feeling. It's wonderful to learn that you do. :-)
Posted by: Keara | March 11, 2012 at 09:51 PM
I enjoyed looking at these paintings. But it does seem clear that the painters had little idea what a lion actually looks like! :)
Posted by: heidi | March 22, 2012 at 03:24 PM
Hi Heidi,
Yes, it's clear that most of these artists have only heard a general description of a lion, but never actually seen one. That fact does give rise to some odd representations, doesn't it?
Posted by: Keara | March 25, 2012 at 04:49 PM