Parable of the Prodigal Son (detail) by Jan van Hemessen

Parable of the Prodigal Son (detail) 1536

janvanhemessen

Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, Brussels, Belgium

character portrait

possibly oil pastel

portrait reference

acrylic on canvas

portrait head and shoulder

underpainting

animal portrait

christianity

facial portrait

lady

portrait art

christ

digital portrait

This detail from Jan van Hemessen's "Parable of the Prodigal Son" (c. 1536), currently housed in the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium, depicts a young woman in a striking blue and pink garment. The composition focuses on her outstretched hand, suggesting a gesture of welcome or offering. The artist's meticulous attention to detail is evident in the rendering of her features, clothing, and the soft, nuanced lighting. This artwork offers a glimpse into the Flemish Renaissance, with its emphasis on realism and devotional themes.