Tobias and Archangel Raphael 1482

Curator: Okay, let’s spend some time with Filippino Lippi's "Tobias and the Angel Raphael," painted around 1482. It’s an oil on panel, typical of the Early Renaissance style. I always find it a lovely narrative piece. Editor: I see friendship and guidance… sort of a gentle journey unfolding. The angel’s robe in dusty blue creates such a soft atmosphere and makes me want to join them in that whimsical landscape. It feels both otherworldly and intimate. Curator: That atmosphere resonates with the painting's biblical narrative. Tobias is accompanied by the Archangel Raphael, who is guiding him on a journey. Raphael helps him cure his father’s blindness using a fish gall bladder, among other things. The symbolism, of course, goes much deeper. Raphael is a symbol of healing, both physical and spiritual. Note his holding of the vial. Editor: The vial as hope and potential... It strikes me how earthly they both look, despite being a sacred scene. The way Tobias sort of leans on the angel, there's a humanity in that connection, right? And then you notice the lizard in Tobias’ hand and it takes you by surprise… What’s up with the lizard? Curator: Yes, these paintings placed holy figures firmly in the physical realm. As for the lizard… art historians have different theories, from being a reference to evil or disease or an allegory of sight… maybe it can simply be seen as a part of Tobias and Raphael's "first-aid" kit? We also cannot ignore the way animals can carry meanings depending on the cultural context. Editor: Ha! First-aid kit from heaven! I like that! I mean, the landscape is so alive; maybe Lippi just wanted to capture everything in nature. I see the little dog trotting beside them almost as if guarding the heroes’ back. Maybe it shows a common need in the era for guidance and finding a support system. The story of finding help in mysterious forms certainly resonates through the ages, don't you think? Curator: It does indeed. It’s fascinating how Lippi combines the divine and the everyday. The artwork uses narrative, portraiture, landscape—very classical for his period—but yet these intimate details create an unforgettable atmosphere. It leaves you pondering. Editor: And with a feeling that maybe angels wear dusty blue sometimes. A thought for our own journeys… and a lesson of embracing all creatures—even the scaly ones.