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Tobias's Farewell to his Parents by Samuel van Hoogstraten

Samuel van Hoogstraten · 1660-01-01

Samuel van Hoogstraten's "Tobias's Farewell to his Parents" (1660) captures the profound sorrow of separation. This Dutch Golden Age masterpiece, housed at the State Hermitage Museum, illustrates the biblical story of Tobias's departure.

Look at the shadowed face of the father, lost in resignation. See the mother's hands reaching out, a desperate plea to hold her son back from his perilous journey.

Van Hoogstraten masterfully uses chiaroscuro to heighten the emotional weight. The dark interior and the somber tones underscore the universal themes of familial love, anxiety, and the bravery required to venture into the unknown.

This painting reminds us of the quiet strength found in facing loss and the enduring bonds of family.

Details

His father's face is lost in shadow.
His father's face is lost in shadow.
Even the dog looks to the departing son.
Even the dog looks to the departing son.
His gaze is directed downwards, suggesting contemplation or a heavy heart as he prepares to depart.
His gaze is directed downwards, suggesting contemplation or a heavy heart as he prepares to depart.
Its texture and the scattered items hint at a meal interrupted by the impending departure.
Its texture and the scattered items hint at a meal interrupted by the impending departure.
Transcript

He is leaving for a long journey. His father's face is lost in shadow. His mother's hands reach out to hold him. The room feels heavy with their shared grief. Even the dog looks to the departing son. This scene is from a biblical story. His parents know he might not return.