Parable of the Prodigal Son (detail) 1536

This detail of the “Parable of the Prodigal Son,” was made by Jan van Hemessen sometime in the 16th century, using oil paint on a wood panel. Oil paint is interesting because of the smoothness of its application. Think about the many layers that went into capturing the scene, and the artist's skill in blending colors on the panel, building up a rich and lifelike image. In this scene, there's a woman who is probably a prostitute. Her open smile and unguarded gaze create an immediate, intimate connection. It's her very material presence that is so striking. It's important to remember that art like this wasn’t just about aesthetics, but about capturing specific aspects of life in a rapidly changing world. Van Hemessen’s choice of oil paint allowed him to render the material world, with incredible fidelity and precision. Ultimately, understanding the materials, the making, and the context helps us appreciate not only the technical skill involved, but also the historical, cultural, and social meanings embedded within the artwork.