Artwork
The Prodigal Son: Wasting His Fortune
The Prodigal Son: Wasting His Fortune is a print by Sebald Beham. It dates from 1535 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
- Accession no.
- 1969.278.2
- Credit line
- Gift of Richard H. Zinser
About this work
Overview
The Prodigal Son: Wasting His Fortune is a print created by Hans Sebald Beham around 1535. It is a representation of a scene from the biblical parable of the Prodigal Son.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a bearded man in a long robe at the center of a gathering, surrounded by others at a table laden with food and drink. The scene captures a moment of indulgence, illustrating the Prodigal Son's reckless extravagance before his downfall.
Technique & Style
As a member of the 'Little Masters,' Beham was known for his intricate engravings and woodcuts. The print showcases his skill in capturing human emotion and interaction through detailed compositions.
History & Provenance
Hans Sebald Beham was active in Nuremberg and later Frankfurt, producing over 250 engravings and 1,500 woodcuts during his career. The Prodigal Son: Wasting His Fortune is one of his works from around 1535.
Artist & collection
Artist
Sebald Beham (1500–1550) was a German painter and printmaker, mainly known for his very small engravings.
