Artwork
The Prodigal Son
The Prodigal Son is an oil painting by the Northern Renaissance artist Jan Sanders van Hemessen. It dates from 1536 and is held in the collection of the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium.
About this work
Overview
The Prodigal Son is a 1536 oil on oak panel painting by Jan Sanders van Hemessen, a painter from Brabant. It is now held in the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts the New Testament parable of the Prodigal Son, showing the contrast between his life of indulgence and his later redemption. The foreground scene of feasting and merriment is juxtaposed with background scenes of his downfall and reconciliation with his father.
Technique & Style
The work is characteristic of Mannerist style, with a lively and detailed depiction of a festive scene. A woman in a red corset and blue skirt is at the center, surrounded by people eating, drinking, and making music.
History & Provenance
The painting has been in the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium since 1881. It was created by Jan Sanders van Hemessen in 1536.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Jan Sanders van Hemessen (c. 1500 – c. 1566) was a leading Flemish Renaissance painter, belonging to the group of Italianizing Flemish painters called the Romanists, who were influenced by Italian Renaissance painting.…
Museum
Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium
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