Tobias Introduces Raphael to His Father c. 16th century

Curator: Here we have Georg Pencz's "Tobias Introduces Raphael to His Father," a delicate engraving measuring just over 6 by 10 centimeters, currently residing at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: The texture is incredible. The artist really captured the scene’s sense of apprehension using so many tiny lines and strokes, a beautiful, almost painful intimacy. Curator: The subject is taken from the Book of Tobit, a deuterocanonical text. We see Tobias presenting the angel Raphael, disguised as a human, to his blind father, Tobit. Editor: Note the positioning of the angel, standing apart, wings subtly suggested; he represents divine intervention, guidance towards healing and restored vision. The bandage over the father's eyes is such a strong symbol. Curator: It speaks to broader themes of faith and redemption that resonated strongly in the Reformation era. Pencz worked in Nuremberg during a period of great religious and social upheaval, so such imagery was especially potent. Editor: This image’s enduring power lies in its depiction of faith tested and ultimately rewarded. It’s a testament to the human spirit.