The Prodigal Son 1661

"The Prodigal Son" (1661) by Barent Fabritius depicts a scene from the biblical parable of the prodigal son, a popular subject in Dutch Golden Age art. The painting portrays the son’s return home, kneeling before his father who embraces him with forgiveness. The scene is rendered with realism and detail, showcasing Fabritius’ mastery of light and shadow, characteristic of Dutch painting. The large scale of the work, measuring 96.5 cm high and 289 cm wide, allows for a detailed portrayal of the characters and the surrounding landscape. This work, while unfortunately lacking a location, is an excellent example of Fabritius' artistic style, showcasing his unique ability to capture both the emotional and physical aspects of a scene.