Artwork preview

The Return of the Prodigal Son

Sebald Beham

National Gallery of Art

This is a detailed drawing depicting a pastoral scene with various figures engaging in agricultural and domestic tasks. One figure is preparing an animal for a feast, two figures are having an emotional reunion under a tree, and another figure is standing nearby. In the background, a figure is operating a plow near a castle-like structure and natural foliage. The image includes text at the top for context.

Artwork Details

Date
1540
Medium
engraving
Dimensions
4257 × 2597 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette