Artwork preview

The Prodigal Son in Misery

Mary Ann Willson

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a person sitting on a stylized hill, positioned sideways but with the upper body slightly facing the viewer. The person has a distinct facial expression, with a defined jawline, wide eyes, and dark, voluminous hair styled in waves. They are wearing a red garment with a shawl over their shoulders and a yellow lower garment. In their left hand, they hold a small bundle. The background features a large tree with a thick trunk and broad, dark leaves. Two figures are near a house with a colorful patchwork roof on the right. In the distance, there is another small figure in an open area, possibly a field. The lower part of the image shows abstract animal depictions near water.

Artwork Details

Date
c. 1815
Medium
pen and black ink and watercolor
Dimensions
1012 × 1200 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original