An artwork on Galleree from The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
About the artwork
The Last Communion of Saint JeromeBotticelli (Alessandro di Mariano Filipepi)
Italian, Florence 1444/45–1510 Florence
early 1490s
13 1/2 x 10 in. (34.3 x 25.4 cm)
Painting
Tempera and gold on wood
European Paintings
Bequest of Benjamin Altman, 1913
In Botticelli's "The Last Communion of Saint Jerome," a profound moment unfolds, rich with emotion and spirituality. The composition centers on Saint Jerome, depicted in a humble state, accepting communion. His frail form and expressive face capture the weight of his final moments, inviting viewers to reflect on mortality and faith.
Surrounding him are figures that embody support and reverence. Each person’s posture and expression enhance the solemnity of the scene. The clergyman administering the sacrament leans forward with a compassionate demeanor, emphasizing the sacredness of the act. The background, with its simple wooden walls and soft light, creates a serene atmosphere, reinforcing the intimate setting of this climactic moment.
The use of color is notable; the gentle hues evoke a sense of calm. The palm fronds in the background symbolize victory and eternal life, contrasting with Jerome's fragile state. This duality speaks to the hope and peace that accompany the end of earthly existence.
Overall, Botticelli’s work invites viewers to contemplate their own beliefs about the afterlife and the power of spiritual connection during life's final passage. Each detail, thoughtfully rendered, contributes to a narrative that is both personal and universal, capturing a moment of profound significance.
About the artist
The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) presents over 5,000 years of art from around the world for everyone to experience and enjoy. The Museum lives in two iconic sites in New York City—The Met Fifth Avenue and The Met Cloisters. Millions of people also take part in The Met experience online.Since its founding in 1870, The Met has always aspired to be more than a treasury of rare and beautiful objects. Every day, art comes alive in the Museum's galleries and through its exhibitions and events, revealing new ideas and unexpected connections across time and across cultures.The artworks shared on this platform are sourced from The Met's Open Access dataset under the CC0 license. No endorsement is implied.Address: 1000 Fifth Avenue New York, NY, USA 10028
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