Tobias Carrying the Fish, Walking with the Angel 1608

Curator: Hendrick Goudt's etching, "Tobias Carrying the Fish, Walking with the Angel," presents a classic biblical scene. It’s part of the Harvard Art Museums collection. Editor: The density of detail in such a small space, only about 13 by 19 centimeters, is really impressive. It feels almost claustrophobic. Curator: Yes, the compact composition amplifies the intimate relationship between Tobias and the archangel Raphael. The fish is a symbol of healing and prosperity, representing divine intervention. Editor: And look at the way Goudt used etching to vary the texture. From the feathered wings to the rippling water and the foliage – it’s all quite dynamic given the limitations of the printmaking process. Curator: Absolutely. It speaks to a period where images were laden with symbolic meaning, offering viewers a deeper understanding of faith and morality through narrative. Editor: Knowing the effort involved in creating these prints for distribution en masse, it's a testament to the demand for imagery that connected people to their beliefs. Curator: A fascinating interplay of material and symbol. Editor: Indeed, a small object holding so much.