The Parable of the Prodigal Son: The Departure No. 1 1882

James Tissot's 1882 etching, "The Parable of the Prodigal Son: The Departure No. 1," depicts the moment the prodigal son requests his inheritance from his father. The artwork is part of a series of twelve etchings that illustrate the parable of the Prodigal Son found in the New Testament. This particular etching focuses on the dramatic moment of departure, with the younger son standing and asking his father for his portion of the family wealth, while his older brother and mother look on in dismay. Tissot's use of chiaroscuro, with dramatic contrasts of light and shadow, enhances the sense of tension and drama within the scene, while also showcasing the nuanced emotions on the faces of each figure. "The Parable of the Prodigal Son: The Departure No. 1" is a powerful example of Tissot's ability to capture the essence of a biblical story through his masterful use of etching and his keen understanding of human emotion.