Tobias en de engel 1659 - 1661

Moses ter Borch rendered this pen and brown ink drawing, depicting Tobias and the Angel, in the Netherlands sometime in the mid-17th century. The image portrays a scene from the Book of Tobit, a popular subject during this period that highlights themes of divine guidance, protection, and the triumph over adversity. The setting and characters resonate with the cultural and religious values prevalent in the Dutch Golden Age. Ter Borch’s choice of subject matter reflects the period's interest in moralizing narratives and biblical stories, which served as both entertainment and instruction for viewers. The narrative would have carried particular weight in a society shaped by religious reform and reflection. To fully appreciate this work, one can consult not only art historical scholarship, but also religious and social histories. This will help us understand its place within the broader context of Dutch culture and its engagement with prevailing social norms and spiritual beliefs.