Toby and the Angel

Oil on canvas

63 x 76 cm

In frame 77 x 90 cm

We are pleased to offer this valuable painting depicting the Archangel Raphael with the young Toby (Tobias), which is based on the painting by Giovanni Gerolamo Savoldo (oil on canvas, 120x160 cm), one of the great masters of the early Brescian Renaissance, dating from around 1527 and now preserved in the Borghese Gallery in Rome [1].

In particular, the work, reproduced here with great character and excellent quality, depicts the Archangel Raphael protecting the boy Tobias with his large wings and showing him the right path: the meaning of this iconography, taken from the Bible (Tobit 5:4-8), has taken on a broader significance over time, eventually becoming the emblem of the human soul protected by its guardian angel.

The subject, particularly popular in Renaissance art for its powerful spiritual value, is rendered here in a sublime manner by Giovanni Girolamo Savoldo (c. 1480 - post 1548), who is not coincidentally considered one of the most mysterious and fascinating painters of his time, capable of blending Lombard figurative culture with the suggestions and colourism of Venetian painting with great poetry.

Born in Brescia but mainly active in Venice, he converted his origins with a style strongly influenced by contemporary Titian solutions, including the use of bright colours to simulate the effect of a light source that shines from the background of the painting, illuminating the angel and casting the young man's face in shadow.

This use of light, which helped the artist express his amazing painting skills and which we also see in our painting, gives the drapery a shiny, almost metallic texture, highlighting the colours and deep folds.

The masterful technique played on a cold light with almost surreal effects gives the drapery, particularly evident here in the angel's robe, a silvery sheen that makes it appear almost wet, becoming one of the distinctive features of the artist's poetics and one that was rarely equalled by his contemporaries.

[1] Savoldo Giovanni Gerolamo (c. 1480/after 1548), Tobiolo and the Angel

c. 1530 - c. 1530, 120 x 160 cm.

Villa Borghese Pinciana, Rome

URL: https://catalogo.beniculturali.it/detail/HistoricOrArtisticProperty/1201008277

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

The painting is in good condition with some restoration consistent with the age of the canvas.

The painting is sold complete with an antique frame and comes with a certificate of authenticity and a descriptive iconographic card.

We take care of and organise the transport of purchased works, both in Italy and abroad, through professional and insured carriers.

If you would like to see this or other works in person, we would be delighted to welcome you to our new gallery in Riva del Garda, at Viale Giuseppe Canella 18. We look forward to seeing you!

Please contact us for any information or to arrange a visit, we will be happy to assist you.

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