Fragment - Romanesque Capital - Tobias And The Fish Against The Devil, Exorcism - Early Period

Mid-12th century – Carved Stone
French Popular School
Provenance: Private Collection, France

This rare carved limestone fragment vividly depicts one of the most fascinating biblical stories from the Book of Tobit, a deuterocanonical text widely circulated during the Middle Ages. Combining miracle, initiation, and triumph over evil forces, this narrative, deeply rooted in medieval spirituality, finds a sculpted interpretation within the Romanesque artistic tradition.

Tobias and the Mission of a Pious Son

The story begins with Tobit, a devout Jew from the tribe of Naphtali, exiled to Nineveh after the destruction of the Kingdom of Israel. Faithful to divine commandments, he is known for his charity and care for the poor. However, his piety does not shield him from suffering: one day, while burying the dead according to Jewish tradition, he is suddenly struck with blindness caused by bird droppings falling into his eyes. His life plunges into darkness, and his only hope now rests on his son, Tobias.

Tobias is entrusted with an essential mission: retrieving a sum of money deposited with a distant relative, Gabael, in Ecbatana, Media. The journey is long and fraught with obstacles, and the young Tobias must rely on divine providence. A guide appears, introducing himself as Azarias, offering his help and knowledge for the journey. Unbeknownst to Tobias, this mysterious traveler is none other than the archangel Raphael, sent by God to protect and guide him.

The Encounter with the Fish and the Role of the Tigris River

As Tobias and his guide travel toward Media, they stop for the night near the Tigris River. While Tobias washes his feet, a large fish suddenly leaps from the water, attempting to seize him. Panicked, he calls for help, but Raphael instructs him not to retreat: he must grab the fish, pull it from the water, and cut it open. Though seemingly simple, this act carries deeper significance—it is his first step toward victory over the dark forces ahead.

Raphael then gives him an unusual directive: he must carefully preserve the fish’s heart, liver, and gall. These organs are not ordinary—they possess special properties capable of repelling demons and curing blindness. Though puzzled, Tobias obeys and continues his journey with his mysterious guide.

Sarah, the Woman Tormented by Asmodeus

Meanwhile, another story unfolds in Ecbatana. A young woman named Sarah, daughter of Raguel, bears a terrible burden: every man she marries dies on their wedding night before the marriage is consummated. This tragedy has occurred seven times, and rumors brand her as cursed.

What remains unknown is that the cause of these deaths is none other than Asmodeus, a formidable demon who has bound himself to Sarah out of jealousy, killing any man who comes near her. Devastated, Sarah believes herself doomed and considers ending her life. Yet, in a final act of hope, she prays to God, seeking divine intervention.

The Exorcism and Victory Over Asmodeus

When Tobias arrives in Ecbatana, he is received by Raguel, who is astonished to discover they are distant relatives. But an even greater revelation awaits him: Raphael informs Tobias that Sarah is destined to be his wife. Fear sets in—will he suffer the same fate as her previous husbands?

Raphael reminds him of the fish’s heart and liver: when burned, their smoke will have the power to drive away the demon. That night, as Tobias and Sarah prepare for their union, he follows the angel’s instructions—placing the organs onto burning coals, releasing a thick smoke. At that moment, Asmodeus, overwhelmed by the scent, flees and is banished to the far reaches of Egypt, where Raphael chains him, ending his malevolent influence.

The miracle is complete—Tobias and Sarah are finally united, and their marriage can proceed without fear.

The Triumphant Return and the Healing of Tobit

After celebrating their wedding and retrieving the money from Gabael, Tobias and Sarah return to Nineveh. However, one final trial remains: restoring his father’s sight.

Recalling Raphael’s words, Tobias applies the fish’s gall to his father’s eyes. Instantly, a thin film peels away from Tobit’s eyelids, and he regains his sight. Light returns to his life, and he can see his son and new daughter-in-law for the first time.

Only then does Raphael reveal his true identity—not a mere traveler, but a messenger of God. He urges Tobias and his family to express gratitude before vanishing, leaving behind a family restored and blessed.

A Medieval Iconography Rich in Meaning

The story of Tobias and the fish is a frequent theme in Romanesque iconography due to its profound symbolism and universal message. This fragment, possibly from a capital or religious architectural décor, attests to the influence of this narrative in 12th-century art.

With a naïve yet expressive style, characteristic of Romanesque popular workshops, the figure of Tobias is distinguished by:

• Large, rounded eyes, emphasizing spiritual awakening and divine intervention.
• A frontal composition, ensuring immediate readability for medieval worshippers.
• Simplified stone carving, typical of provincial Romanesque production.

Condition

• Fragmentary but legible, with a beautiful aged patina.
• This piece has been carefully cleaned, as it was covered in soil upon discovery. It was washed only with soapy water, without any chemical treatment or alteration of the surface.
• Displays natural wear consistent with its age.

Specifications

• Dimensions: 16 x 9 cm
• Weight: 1 kg

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