De verloren zoon als armoedzaaier 1595 - 1625

Johann Gelle created this print, "The Prodigal Son as a Pauper," in the early 17th century. It shows the biblical figure of the prodigal son after he has squandered his inheritance. In the print, the son is shown in rags, being mocked by the wealthy people he once associated with. Made in the Netherlands, it reflects the Dutch Republic's growing emphasis on moralizing stories. Religious art at this time often served a didactic function, teaching viewers about sin, redemption, and the importance of virtuous living. It is therefore a far cry from the ostentatious displays of wealth that dominated other nations' art. The print invites viewers to reflect on their own moral choices. To fully understand this print, one could research Dutch social customs of the time and examine other examples of moralizing prints to provide a broader picture of the artistic and social context. The meaning of art is contingent on social and institutional context.