The Book of Tobit subject in which the young Tobias journeys under the protection of the Archangel Raphael, often accompanied by a fish and dog.
Tobias and the Angel depicts the journey of Tobias accompanied by the Archangel Raphael in the Book of Tobit. A fish, walking staff, travel dress, and small dog are common identifying elements.
Etymology
Tobias from Hebrew Toviyyah; Raphael from Hebrew Refa'el, “God heals.”
Sculptor Notes
The subject is excellent for studying paired walking figures. Raphael usually guides without dominating; Tobias is protected but remains an active traveler. The connection between hands or wrists can become the compositional hinge of the group.
References
https://www.nga.gov/artworks/370-tobias-and-angel; https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/383883