De verloren zoon verkwist zijn erfenis 1617 - 1667

Frans Francken the Younger created this etching, "The Prodigal Son Squandering His Inheritance", in the 17th century. During this period, the Dutch Republic experienced immense economic and cultural growth. Here, we are invited into the raucous world of wealth, privilege, and moral decay. Francken draws from the biblical parable of the Prodigal Son, capturing a scene of unrestrained indulgence. The image portrays a young man surrounded by revelers, squandering his wealth on food, drink, and questionable company. Francken uses the narrative to explore themes of sin, repentance, and redemption. The prodigal son represents the dangers of succumbing to temptation and the consequences of straying from the path of righteousness. The artist's choice to depict the scene in such vivid detail reveals the moral complexities of the time, and how the experience of faith was often a personal and emotional struggle. The etching serves as a poignant reminder of the human condition, the allure of temptation, and the hope for redemption.