St. Jerome

The figure was created during the patronage of cathedral canon Dominik Teszchner (1408-1430). Its original location is unknown, probably moved to the new western portico between 1465-1468. During the regotization of the cathedral in 1873-75, it underwent renovation.

A full-plastic sculpture depicting St. Jerome en pied with a lion. The sculpture has a portrait-like character, the head slightly tilted towards the animal, with deeply set eyes looking down. The facial features are distinct, with a straight prominent nose with nasolabial folds, heart-shaped lips, and a gently outlined jaw with a soft second chin. The facial expression is mildly concerned. The hair is short, tightly curled into thick locks, hidden under a cardinal’s hat. The attire consists of a finely pleated dress cinched at the waist and a cloak with a hood covering the entire figure.

The cloak is draped over the bent arms in soft, gently cascading folds, forming U-shaped lines on the sides. The right foot slightly protrudes from the cloak in an external display. The lion is depicted realistically, though maintaining a symbolic scale. Supported on its hind legs, it climbs towards the saint’s hands. The mouth is open but with a gentle expression. The lion’s mane is crafted into dense, wavy locks covering the animal’s torso up to the shoulder height.

The group stands on a quadrilateral plate with a majuscule inscription: HIERONIMUS/DOMINICUS TESCHNER.

The figure is placed on adjoining capitals of twin wall columns adorning the portico. The massive floral capitals are bas-relief carved in deep, almost openwork relief. The shafts of both columns are entwined with plant vines and inflorescences.