Return of the Prodigal Son

guercino

possibly oil pastel

oil painting

portrait reference

acrylic on canvas

portrait head and shoulder

portrait drawing

facial portrait

portrait art

fine art portrait

digital portrait

This painting, *Return of the Prodigal Son* by Italian Baroque artist Guercino (1591-1666), depicts the biblical parable of the prodigal son. The father, his face full of love and forgiveness, embraces his returning son. The son, clothed in rags, appears ashamed and humbled as he is dressed in new clothes. The scene captures the powerful moment of reconciliation and the father's unconditional love. Guercino’s dramatic use of light and shadow and his intense portrayal of emotion create a moving and powerful image of the parable's central themes.