The Prodigal Son Wasting his Fortune, plate two from The History of the Prodigal Son 1540

Sebald Beham's "The Prodigal Son Wasting his Fortune" (1540) is a masterful example of German Renaissance printmaking. This etching, the second plate in a series depicting the parable of the prodigal son, vividly captures the moment of the son's extravagant spending. The scene is set in an outdoor garden, where the prodigal son, flanked by a woman and a man, is surrounded by a lavish feast. The detailed rendering of the figures, the expressive gestures, and the subtle use of light and shadow create a compelling and poignant narrative. The artist's meticulous attention to detail, evident in the depiction of the clothing, furniture, and landscape, highlights the opulence and decadence of the son's lifestyle. The composition, with its emphasis on the central figure and the contrasting perspectives, emphasizes the theme of moral decay and the consequences of reckless abandon.