Who painted The Healing of Tobit (verso)?

The Healing of Tobit (verso) was painted by Ferdinand Bol in 1634.

Where can I see The Healing of Tobit (verso)?

The Healing of Tobit (verso) is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is The Healing of Tobit (verso)?

The Healing of Tobit (verso) is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

The Healing of Tobit (verso)

Ferdinand Bol , 1634

The Healing of Tobit (verso) is a drawing by the Baroque artist Ferdinand Bol. It dates from 1634 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Healing of Tobit (verso) is a drawing by Ferdinand Bol, a prominent pupil of Rembrandt van Rijn. The work showcases Bol's interpretation of a theme explored in multiple media, reflecting his interest in capturing introspective figures within dramatic, light-contrasted environments.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, an old man in a dark interior with hands raised, evokes themes of contemplation or prayer. His identity as Tobit is suggested by the verso's relation to Rembrandt's 'Tobit Healing his Father’s Blindness', implying a narrative of faith and healing.

Technique & Style

Bol utilizes expressive ink wash with controlled dramatic shading, emphasizing the figure's psychological depth. This technique, learned from Rembrandt, employs chiaroscuro to isolate the man's glowing face amidst a dimly lit room, highlighting his emotional state.

History & Provenance

The drawing's verso features a sketch after Rembrandt's 'Tobit Healing his Father’s Blindness' (CMA, 1969.69, dated 1640-45). Bol created at least ten drawings and four prints of this scene, indicating its significance in his practice.

Context

Created in the shadow of Rembrandt's influential workshop, where drawing was central, Bol's work reflects the mentor's compositional styles of the 1630s-1640s, particularly in portrayals of scholars, philosophers, and saints.