Scene from the Story of Tobias 16th-17th century

Curator: Here we have "Scene from the Story of Tobias," an engraving by Crispijn de Passe the Elder, a Flemish artist active around the turn of the 17th century. Editor: The composition is really striking. The angel soaring above seems to be the focal point, but my eye keeps wandering to the figures in the foreground—all that implied motion. Curator: The image depicts the moment the angel Raphael reveals his true nature to Tobias and his family. It's a powerful scene of divine intervention, laden with symbolism. Angels as messengers, the healing power of faith... it all speaks to the era's religious preoccupations. Editor: Absolutely. And observe how de Passe uses light and shadow to create a sense of drama, really emphasizing the otherworldliness of the angel's appearance. Curator: The historical context is important. De Passe worked during a time of religious upheaval and intense iconographic debate. Printmaking allowed for the widespread dissemination of these images, influencing social and religious thought. Editor: Looking closely, I am fascinated by the expressions of awe and wonder on the faces of the figures below. It captures such a raw, universal response to the divine. Curator: Indeed, a potent reminder of how visual imagery shaped cultural memory and faith during that period. Editor: A perfect example of how symbols can evoke profound emotional responses.