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

Curator: This is Crispijn de Passe the Elder's "Scene from the Story of Tobias," a print depicting a biblical journey. The artist was active from 1564 to 1637. Editor: What immediately strikes me is the angel. The wing detail and the staff are symbols of guidance and divine protection. Curator: Indeed. The story of Tobias was increasingly depicted during the Counter-Reformation, emphasizing themes of charity and divine intervention in daily life, reflecting the Church’s socio-political agenda at the time. Editor: Notice also the small dog at their feet, a symbol of fidelity, and perhaps even a guardian spirit accompanying them on their travels. Curator: It's a fascinating intersection of religious narrative and cultural symbolism, all filtered through the lens of 16th-century sociopolitical currents. Editor: A potent reminder of the symbolic depth that images can hold across time.