Sagrada Familia con Rafael, Tobías y San Jerónimo, o Virgen del pez Raphael (1483-1520)

The composition centers around a seated female figure, presumably the Virgin Mary, holding an infant in her lap. She is draped in flowing garments – a pale blouse and a deep blue robe – that contribute to a sense of both modesty and regal dignity. The child clings to her neck, his gaze directed outward, beyond the immediate group.
To the left of Mary stands a youthful figure with fair hair, gesturing towards the infant. This individual’s pose is animated, suggesting an offering or presentation. To the right, an older man with a long white beard and wearing a red robe holds open a book, his attention seemingly divided between the scene unfolding before him and the text he studies. The presence of this figure introduces an element of scholarly contemplation and perhaps alludes to scriptural knowledge.
The background is dominated by a dark curtain or drape, which serves to isolate the figures and direct focus onto their interaction. A table sits in the foreground, partially obscured, adding depth to the scene. A small sculpture rests on this table; its subject appears to be an animal – possibly a lion – further enriching the symbolic content of the work.
The arrangement suggests a narrative or devotional context. The youthful figure’s gesture and the older mans book reading imply a story being told or interpreted, while Mary’s posture conveys maternal tenderness and acceptance. The inclusion of the sculpture on the table introduces an additional layer of meaning – perhaps referencing themes of strength, royalty, or divine protection. Overall, the painting evokes a sense of reverence and invites contemplation on familial bonds, spiritual guidance, and the transmission of knowledge.