The temptation of a saint (Jerome or Anthony?), ca. 1624 – 1625

About the Work

Here again, Guercino captures our imagination with his drawing. His arm outstretched, the saint endeavours to push away the demon in the shape of a naked horned woman while in his other hand he holds a crucifix almost imploringly. The candlestick lying on its side conveys the impulsiveness of his action. The masterfully rendered play of light and shade also does its part to heighten the drama of the nocturnal event.