The artwork titled “Return of the Prodigal Son” was created by Jan Steen between circa 1668 and 1670. It is a genre painting, characteristic of the Baroque art movement, and rendered in oil on canvas. Currently, the artwork resides in a private collection.
In the artwork, Jan Steen presents a lively and vivid depiction of the biblical parable of the prodigal son’s return. The scene captures the emotional reconciliation between the weary, humbled son and his forgiving father. The composition is rich with details: figures engaging in various activities, including a maid carrying a basket, a child peering out from inside, and a calf curiously observing the scene from beneath. The setting is a rustic household, with elements such as an arched doorway and sprawling trees in the background that add depth and context. The expressions and body language of the characters are dynamically rendered, enhancing the storytelling aspect of the painting and highlighting Steen’s mastery in portraying human interaction and emotion.
