Het vertrek van de verloren zoon c. 1684 - 1740

Gerrit de Broen created 'The Departure of the Prodigal Son' using engraving techniques. The image is achieved through careful incisions on a metal plate, likely copper, capturing the biblical narrative with precision. The material quality of the engraving—its fine lines and contrasts—dictates the overall impact of the artwork. Each mark requires skilled handwork, reflecting the artist's labor and the era's meticulous craftsmanship. This printmaking tradition connects to a broader history of artisanal practices, where technical skill and artistic expression intertwine. The printmaking medium also allowed the reproduction of images, making art accessible to a wider audience. This aligns with the burgeoning market economy of the time, where art served not only aesthetic but also didactic purposes, spreading moral lessons. Ultimately, understanding the materials, making, and context allows us to appreciate the full meaning of the artwork. It challenges traditional distinctions between art and craft, and provides insight into the social and cultural values of the time.