The Prodigal Son taking leave of his Home
1660 Museo del Prado
About this artwork
This painting is one of a series of six works by Murillo depicting the Parable of the Prodigal Son. It captures the moment the young man departs from his family estate, mounted on a horse and wrapped in a red cloak.
Did you know?
Murillo’s series on the Prodigal Son is highly celebrated for its ability to transform a biblical parable into a series of distinctively Spanish genre scenes. Interestingly, the artist imbued the figures with such deep, palpable emotion that the series was often used in the 17th century as a tool for moral instruction and contemplation on the themes of repentance and forgiveness.
Know the artwork. Knowing its title and artist turns a beautiful image into a story worth sharing — with a museum label:
The Prodigal Son taking leave of his Home
Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, 1660
On your wall. Unlock the HD download and keep this piece in your Vault — forever.
