Tobias vangt de grote vis c. 1590

This engraving by Zacharias Dolendo depicts the biblical scene of Tobias catching a great fish. The dominant image here is that of the fish itself, being gutted by Tobias under the watchful eye of the angel Raphael. Consider how the fish, a symbol deeply embedded in the human psyche, appears across cultures. From ancient fertility rites, where the fish symbolized abundance, to its adoption as a symbol of Christ, representing spiritual nourishment and transformation, it carries layers of meaning. Here, it's not merely a fish but a vessel of healing; its organs contain the power to restore sight. The act of Tobias gutting the fish, guided by the angel, echoes the ancient motif of sacrifice and extraction of life's essence. This image taps into our collective memory, resonating with subconscious notions of danger and salvation, fear, and hope. The fish becomes a potent symbol, engaging us on a profound level. Its representation is less about the literal act and more about the emotional and psychological impact, reminding us of the non-linear, cyclical progression of symbols.