On-line gallery
- Reference number
- P00039
- Author
- Bassano, Francesco; Bassano, Jacopo
- Title
- The Return of the Prodigal Son
- Chronology
- Ca. 1570
- Technique
- Oil
- Support
- Canvas
- Measures
- 147 cm x 200 cm
- School
- Italian
- Theme
- Religion
- On display
- Yes
- Procedence
- Royal Collection (Royal Palace of El Buen Retiro, Madrid, “pinturas recogidas de las Casas Arzobispales”, 1747, nº 249; Royal Palace, Madrid, “cuarto del infante don Francisco-tercera pieza”, 1814-1818, s.n.?)
The main scene that gives this painting its name takes place in the background, where the father receives the prodigal son at the top of the stairs.
The subject of this painting is based on the last line of the New Testament parable "The Prodigal Son" (Luke 15, 11-32). It shows the moment when the son, after squandering his inheritance, repents before God and returns to his father's house. The latter forgives him and receives him with a grand banquet, which Bassano depicts in the foreground, displaying his mastery as a still-life painter.
This work was given to Felipe IV (1606-1665) by the Duke of Medina de las Torres.
