“The Prodigal Son,” created by Carlos Merida in 1973, belongs to the Cubism movement and is categorized as a religious painting. The artwork presents a complex interplay of geometric shapes and abstract forms, characteristic of Cubist aesthetics.
In the artwork, a composition of interlocking geometric forms in shades of red, white, black, and blue dominates the canvas. The arrangement of shapes culminates in a vertically oriented structure, with intersecting lines creating a layered effect. The figures are abstracted and stylized, with minimalistic representations hinting at their religious context. The white background frames the central composition, accentuating the vibrancy and depth of the colors used. The interplay of straight lines and curves adds to the dynamic quality of the piece, presenting a modern interpretation of a traditional religious theme.