Workshop of the Master of the Life of the Virgin – Saints Jerome, Bernard, Giles and Benedict Part 6 National Gallery UK

The composition presents four figures arranged in a hierarchical manner against a backdrop of stylized landscape. The individuals, clad in distinct religious attire, are positioned within a shallow pictorial space defined by a decorative architectural frame. A palpable sense of solemnity pervades the scene, reinforced by the restrained palette and formal poses.
On the left stands a figure draped in vibrant red robes, topped with a hooded cowl. He holds a closed book, suggesting scholarship or contemplation. Beside him is a man in a dark brown habit, seated on a stone block and engrossed in reading from an open volume. His posture conveys intellectual engagement and devotion to study. To his right stands another figure in a similar monastic garb, holding a staff and accompanied by a small hare. The final individual, positioned furthest to the right, is dressed in white clerical robes, clutching a book and bearing a pastoral staff.
Each of these men is attended by an animal companion: a lion rests at the feet of the man in red, while the figure in brown has a lion as well. The man with the hare is accompanied by a small dog, and the final figure’s animal is not visible. These animals are not depicted realistically; they appear docile and symbolic rather than wild or threatening.
The background reveals a simplified cityscape under a blue sky, rendered with minimal detail. This backdrop serves to isolate the figures and emphasize their spiritual significance. The halos above each head clearly mark them as saints.
Subtly, the painting explores themes of faith, learning, and asceticism. The presence of books underscores the importance of knowledge and scriptural study within a religious context. The animals accompanying the saints likely carry symbolic weight – the lion often representing courage or Christ’s power, the hare signifying humility, and the dog symbolizing loyalty. The differing attire suggests distinct orders or traditions within the Church, while their shared devotion is emphasized by their unified placement within the composition. The overall effect is one of reverence and piety, presenting a visual meditation on spiritual ideals.