Tobit. The Book of Tobit, an Old Testament apocryphal text, has inspired various themes in Western art.
Common depictions include Tobit's blindness, the Archangel Raphael guiding Tobit's son Tobias, Tobias catching a fish for its healing properties, Sarah plagued by the demon Asmodeus, the wedding of Tobias and Sarah, and the healing of Tobit's blindness. These scenes showcase drama, redemption, and family values, making the Book of Tobit a popular source for artists like Titian, Veronese, Rembrandt, and Tiepolo.
One of the most frequently depicted scenes is Tobit's blindness, which occurs after he is struck by bird droppings that fall into his eyes while he is burying a dead body. This event is often shown as a moment of despair, with Tobit accompanied by his faithful dog.
The Archangel Raphael plays a significant role in the story, guiding and protecting Tobit's son, Tobias, on his journey. Raphael is often portrayed as a handsome, youthful figure, sometimes with wings, and is usually shown accompanying Tobias.
Another popular scene in Western art is Tobias catching a large fish, as instructed by Raphael. The fish's gall, heart, and liver are used to cure Tobit's blindness and to ward off evil spirits. This scene is often depicted as a moment of triumph, with Tobias holding the fish and Raphael providing guidance. Tobias' future wife, is plagued by the demon Asmodeus, who kills her