Artwork

The Prodigal Son Squandering His Inheritance on Harlots

The Prodigal Son Squandering His Inheritance on Harlots, by Dirck Volckertz Coornhert, ink, 1548
The Prodigal Son Squandering His Inheritance on Harlots, by Dirck Volckertz Coornhert, ink, 1548

The Prodigal Son Squandering His Inheritance on Harlots is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Dirck Volckertz Coornhert. It dates from 1548 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:in later hand, at lower right in black ink: A 798; in later hand, across bottom verso in graphite: Heemskerk / Holl.51 / [?] BE / Jean [?] / Ecole Francais / XVI Sie cle
Markings
Marked:verso, stamped in red ink: [mark of Rudolf L. Mayer (Lugt 4534)]; verso, stamped in black ink: BE [Lugt 357, unidentified]

About this work

Overview

The Prodigal Son Squandering His Inheritance on Harlots is a woodcut print created by Dirck Volckertz Coornhert around 1548.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a scene of revelry, with the Prodigal Son at its center, surrounded by figures in various states of undress, conveying a sense of abandon and excess. The biblical parable's theme of squandering wealth is illustrated through the lively and detailed scene.

Technique & Style

The woodcut is characterized by intricate lines and textures, achieved through fine detail work, giving the image depth and dimensionality. The use of brown laid paper adds a warm tone to the print, showcasing Coornhert's skill in utilizing the medium to create a rich visual effect.

Context

This work is a product of the Renaissance period, reflecting the artistic advancements and thematic interests of the time. The influence of other prominent artists, such as Albrecht Dürer, can be seen in the technical proficiency and stylistic choices made by Coornhert.

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Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted The Prodigal Son Squandering His Inheritance on Harlots?

The Prodigal Son Squandering His Inheritance on Harlots was painted by Dirck Volckertz Coornhert in 1548.

Where can I see The Prodigal Son Squandering His Inheritance on Harlots?

The Prodigal Son Squandering His Inheritance on Harlots is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Prodigal Son Squandering His Inheritance on Harlots?

The Prodigal Son Squandering His Inheritance on Harlots is associated with Renaissance.

Can I buy a print of The Prodigal Son Squandering His Inheritance on Harlots?

Museum-quality prints of The Prodigal Son Squandering His Inheritance on Harlots are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.