Plaque with the Return of the Prodigal Son c. 1740 - 1770

This 18th-century Delftware plaque, likely made in the Netherlands, depicts the biblical story of the Prodigal Son's return. Executed in blue and white, the scene showcases a group of figures gathered around a central figure, possibly the prodigal son, in a richly detailed, yet somewhat stylized, manner. The use of cobalt blue on a white background is characteristic of Delftware, a style of tin-glazed earthenware. The plaque's overall composition suggests a genre scene, emphasizing the narrative and emotional impact of the story.