Tobias and the Angel Raffaellino da Reggio (Raffaello Motta) (1550-1578)

The composition presents two figures within a densely wooded landscape, bathed in a soft, diffused light. A young man, clad in a flowing yellow garment and sandals, stands with one hand extended outwards as if offering or gesturing towards something beyond the immediate view. His posture suggests a mixture of apprehension and deference. Beside him is another figure, a younger boy dressed in darker clothing, draped with a vibrant red cloth that serves to highlight his form. He carries a large fish suspended from a staff over his shoulder; its scales shimmer subtly within the light. A small dog sits attentively at their feet, adding a touch of domesticity and loyalty to the scene.
The background is layered with foliage, transitioning into distant hills and a hazy cityscape visible on the horizon. The landscape appears both idyllic and somewhat forbidding, hinting at an unknown journey or destination. The artist has employed a dramatic use of chiaroscuro – strong contrasts between light and shadow – which emphasizes the figures’ physicality and contributes to the overall sense of narrative tension.
The subtexts within this work revolve around themes of guidance, protection, and divine intervention. The outstretched hand of the first figure implies an offering or a plea for assistance. The presence of the fish, a symbol often associated with abundance and redemption in religious iconography, suggests a blessing or a provision made by a higher power. The boy’s posture, while seemingly vulnerable, also conveys a sense of duty and acceptance of his role within this unfolding narrative.
The dogs inclusion adds an element of fidelity and companionship, reinforcing the idea that even in moments of uncertainty, support can be found in unexpected places. The distant cityscape, barely discernible through the foliage, hints at a larger world beyond their immediate surroundings – a destination or a future yet to be realized. Overall, the painting conveys a sense of quiet solemnity and anticipation, inviting contemplation on themes of faith, responsibility, and the mysteries of divine providence.