Hendrick de Somer known as Enrico Fiammingo(Lokeren 1602 - Naples 1655) Saint Jerome penitent in the cave 103 x 130 cm. - In original period frame 123 x 152 cm. This superb Saint Jerome, among the most popular and recurring figures in 17th-century paintings, is a work of extraordinary visual impact, showing the Christian monk portrayed as a hermit kneeling in prayer in the shadows of a cave. The painting is undoubtedly indebted to the Neapolitan models of the early 17th century, and in particular the characteristics of style highlight the reflections of Jusepe de Ribera (1591-1652), evident both in the choice of subject and in the dramatic expressiveness of the elderly body. Compared to the great master, however, the canvas presents a softer pictorial style than the dark and naturalistic tensions typical of his art, turning towards a neo-Venetian style of painting based on the expressive power of color. These considerations, combined with the descriptive attention to the face, suggest the attribution to Hendrick van Somer (1607 - 1656). The numerous paintings of certain autograph present in private collections and in important public collections are a fundamental comparative term with this beautiful and sentimentally intense canvas. Among his known works are three versions of San Girolamo in the desert, one in the Trafalgar Galleries in London from 1651, the other the superb San Girolamo in the National Gallery of Palazzo Barberini in Rome signed and dated 1652 (https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:San_Girolamo_in_lettura_-_Van_Somer.jpg), and also that of the Galleria Spada also in Rome. Here are other works by the master: https://catalogo.fondazionezeri.unibo.it/ricerca.v2.jsp?filtroartista_OA=16402&apply=true&de... Our work shows Somer's complex language, with the Ribera roots evident in the choice of subject and the dramatic expressiveness of the old arm placed in clear evidence. The Saint, with his slender body, all tense tendons and rigid bones, is contrasted with the ample red drapery of the cloak that envelops him, alluding to the cardinalatial dignity. The open book is his canonical iconographic attribute, referring to Girolamo's profitable activity as a scholar, biblical scholar and theologian, which made him the forerunner of the Renaissance humanist. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: The work is completed by a beautiful antique frame and is sold with a certificate of authenticity and guarantee. We take care of and organize the transport of the purchased works, both for Italy and abroad, through professional and insured carriers. It is also possible to see the painting in the gallery in Riva del Garda, we will be happy to welcome you to show you our collection of works. Contact us, without obligation, for any additional information. Also follow us on: INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/galleriacastelbarco/?hl=it FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/galleriacastelbarco/