Artwork

Scenes from the story of Tobias (marriage of Tobias and Sara; the archangel leaves Tobit and Anna)

Scenes from the story of Tobias (marriage of Tobias and Sara; the archangel leaves Tobit and Anna) is an unspecified painting by the Early Renaissance artist Bicci di Lorenzo. It dates from 1422 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

About this work

Subject & Meaning

Iconographically, the scene combines elements of the Book of Tobit narrative, emphasizing themes of divine guidance and familial devotion.

The subject depicted shows Tobias and Sara in the moment of their marriage, with the archangel Raphael departing from Tobit and Anna. Iconographically, the scene combines elements of the Book of Tobit narrative, emphasizing themes of divine guidance and familial devotion. Symbolically, Raphael's departure underscores his role as a messenger and protector, while the inclusion of Tobit and Anna highlights the continuity of lineage and faith. The work represents a convergence of marital union and spiritual stewardship within the religious tradition.

History & Provenance

The painting is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna. While specific inventory or accession numbers are not provided in the available records, the work is officially attributed to Bicci di Lorenzo and classified as a religious genre piece depicting scenes from the story of Tobias. The museum serves as both the current location and the primary custodian of the artwork. No exhibition history is documented in the provided sources.

Legacy

The work remained in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna, where it was recorded as part of the museum's religious paintings assemblage from the early Renaissance. Its depiction of Tobias and Sara influenced later interpretations of the Tobias narrative in Central European religious art, though no later works directly cite the composition.

The painting's provenance is documented in museum records, confirming its continued display in the museum's galleries.

Overview

Created circa 1422, this panel by Florentine painter Bicci di Lorenzo presents two narrative moments from the biblical Book of Tobit. The left side shows a banquet scene with several figures gathered around a table, while the right side depicts an angel departing from a couple seated at a similar table, clutching a spray of flowers. The composition is rendered in vivid pink, blue, and green tones, lending the work a tranquil atmosphere.

Technique & Style

Executed in tempera on panel, the work displays the early Renaissance interest in spatial organization and naturalistic detail. Figures are modeled with delicate shading, and the use of bright, saturated pigments highlights clothing and architectural elements. The dual scenes are linked by a continuous horizon line, creating a cohesive visual narrative while maintaining distinct focal points.

Context

The work belongs to the early Renaissance period, a time when Florentine artists began to explore more realistic representation of space and human emotion. By depicting a biblical story in a domestic, banquet-like setting, Bicci aligns with contemporary trends that sought to make sacred narratives relatable to contemporary viewers.