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

Curator: This etching is entitled "Scene from the Story of Tobias," made by Crispijn de Passe the Elder. Note the stark contrast between the detailed foreground and the distant city scene. Editor: There’s a somber, almost distressed mood created by the central figure's posture; the high contrast adds to that feeling. Curator: Indeed. De Passe’s engraving technique, common at the time, relies on line and cross-hatching to model form and create tonal variations; we see this most clearly in the drapery. What do you make of the narrative choices? Editor: It's interesting how de Passe uses the architecture and figures in the background to add socio-historical context, presenting the broader world that influences the domestic drama unfolding in the foreground. Curator: It speaks to the pervasive influence of religion and morality in daily life in the 16th and 17th centuries. Editor: A poignant glimpse into both artistic skill and societal values of the era.