Prodigal Son Leaves Home c. 17th century

Curator: Editor: Jacques Callot's tiny etching, "Prodigal Son Leaves Home", presents this bustling scene that feels almost…cinematic, like a single frame from a much larger story. What captures your imagination when you look at it? Curator: Well, it's a departure, isn't it? A flurry of bodies propelled by an unknown force. The chaos in the foreground mirrors a deeper upheaval. Look how Callot uses line to create depth, pushing us into the scene. Almost feels like we're eavesdropping on a pivotal moment, yes? Editor: I hadn’t considered how active the lines made it seem. So, would you say the frenetic energy is the key to understanding the piece? Curator: Perhaps. It's a young man's impetuousness, visualized. A storm gathering, or perhaps, already unleashed. What do you make of the expressions on the faces? Are they celebratory, or laced with worry? Editor: They do seem a bit worried, now that you mention it. I guess leaving home wasn’t so simple. It makes me look more deeply at the whole image now, thanks! Curator: Exactly! The image transforms from a simple story to a visual poem about the pains of leaving home, doesn't it?