Saint Jerome Extracting a Thorn from a Lion's Paw - Master of the Murano Gradual (Italian, active about 1430 - 1460)

This leaf illustrates a scene from the life of Saint Jerome (about 341 - 420), depicting his compassionate act of removing a thorn from a lion's paw. Saint Jerome's figure dominates the foreground, showcasing his delicate handling of gold tweezers as he tends to the injured animal. In the background, a monk approaches with ointment and a bandage, emphasizing the saint's caring nature and the lion's peaceful submission. This artwork likely originated from a large miniature or initial in a gradual commissioned for the Camaldolese monastery of San Mattia in Murano, renowned for its exquisite illumination by the Master of the Murano Gradual, celebrated for his expressive figures and intricate drapery.