Saint Jerome Writing

The painting "Saint Jerome Writing" by the renowned Italian artist Caravaggio was created around 1607 or 1608. Today, this masterpiece resides in the Oratory of St. John's Co-Cathedral in Valletta, Malta. Interestingly, Caravaggio had painted a similar piece earlier, which now resides in the Borghese Gallery in Rome.

Caravaggio's journey to Malta in 1607 was quite eventful. After a fatal brawl in Rome, during which he killed a man, he sought refuge with the Colonna family in Naples. There, he enjoyed both success and support but eventually moved to Malta. This relocation was likely motivated by the need for protection from his enemies and the hope of securing a papal pardon to return to Rome.

The painting prominently features the coat of arms of Ippolito Malaspina, who was the Prior of the Knights of Saint John in Naples and had strong ties with Caravaggio's patrons. Some believe that Malaspina himself might be depicted as Saint Jerome in the painting. Despite Malaspina's reputation as a warrior, the choice of St. Jerome, known for translating the Bible, could have been intended to emphasize Malaspina's charitable work and the ascetic values of the Order.

Ippolito Malaspina arrived in Malta after the Great Siege of 1565 and was related to Vespasianus Malaspina, who died defending Fort Saint Elmo against the Ottomans.

In 1984, "Saint Jerome Writing" was stolen from St. John's Co-Cathedral. Fortunately, it was recovered two years later after a ransom was paid. The painting had suffered damage during its absence and required restoration before it could be displayed again.