Tobias and Azarja (the archangel Raphael's cover name) taking leave of Tobit 1554

Maarten van Heemskerck's 1554 drawing, "Tobias and Azarja (the archangel Raphael's cover name) taking leave of Tobit," depicts the moment of departure between the angel Raphael and Tobias, a young man who has just been healed by Raphael. In this detailed black and white drawing, Tobit, Tobias' father, reaches out to Raphael in a gesture of gratitude, while Raphael (disguised as Azarja) holds a staff with a banner, signifying his angelic nature. The composition is dynamic, with figures arranged around a table in a domestic setting, providing an intimate feel to this biblical story. The work's focus on detail and realism reflects the characteristic style of the Northern Renaissance, while highlighting Heemskerck's mastery of penmanship.