Who painted Tobit Burying the Dead?

Tobit Burying the Dead was painted by Domenico Piola in 1655.

Where can I see Tobit Burying the Dead?

Tobit Burying the Dead is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Tobit Burying the Dead?

Tobit Burying the Dead is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Tobit Burying the Dead?

Museum-quality prints of Tobit Burying the Dead are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Tobit Burying the Dead

Domenico Piola , 1655

Tobit Burying the Dead is a chalk drawing by the Baroque artist Domenico Piola. It dates from 1655 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription: Inscribed:by later hand, in pen and brown ink at lower right, Sebastien Bourdon; by later hand, right center verso in brown ink: BS 396 / No. 31 1 [not deciphered]

About this work

Overview

Domenico Piola's 'Tobit Burying the Dead' is a drawing created around 1655, held at the National Gallery of Art, Washington. Executed in pen and brown ink with brown wash, it showcases the artist's expressive use of medium.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a chaotic scene from the biblical story of Tobit, with three figures in a rocky landscape. One figure stands over a body, while another kneels nearby and a third reacts in the background, conveying a sense of drama and emotion.

Technique & Style

Piola employed loose, sketchy lines and quick strokes, leaving some areas unfinished, to achieve a raw, dynamic feel. The use of ink and wash creates a sense of spontaneity, suggesting a study or preparatory work rather than a finished piece.