The Prodigal Son Bids Farewell to his Father

Abraham Bosse

Associated Names
Abraham Bosse

Artist, French, 1602 - 1676

This is a drawing of an interior scene featuring a group of elegantly dressed individuals engaging in conversation. An additional figure is visible in the background. The image depicts a detailed and ornately bordered tableau with four figures gathered around a seated person. Another figure in the background is carrying a large object on their back and is entering from an exterior setting. A pastoral landscape with trees, buildings, and animal figures can be seen through an open architectural space framed by columns. The figures are clothed in period attire, suggestive of a historical or allegorical theme. The intricate detail of the lines suggests a careful etching or engraving process. The image includes elaborate decoration within the main scene and in the border, highlighting architectural and natural elements with a rich texture and depth.

Media Options

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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    engraving

  • Credit Line

    Ailsa Mellon Bruce Fund

  • Accession Number

    1982.40.2

  • Catalogue Raisonné

    Le Blanc, no. 76


Artwork history & notes

Exhibition History

2007

  • Fabulous Journeys and Faraway Places: Travels on Paper, 1450 - 1700, National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C., 2007

Bibliography

1854

  • Le Blanc, Charles. _Manuel de l'amateur d'estampes, contenant le dictionnaire des graveurs de toutes les nations, dans lequel sont decrites les estampes rares, precieuses et interessantes avec l'indication de leurs differents etats et des prix auxquels

1992

  • Taggard, Mindy Nancarrow. Murillo's Allegories of Salvation and Triumph: The Parable of the Prodigal Son and The Life of Jacob. Columbia, Missouri and London, 1992: p. 27.

Wikidata ID

Q74038555

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