The Prodigal Son

The Prodigal Son, created by Albrecht Dürer in 1496, is one of the most celebrated early examples of the artist’s mastery of engraving. This print meticulously illustrates the New Testament parable from the Gospel of Luke, depicting the moment of deep despair when the errant son realizes the error of his ways. Dürer’s sophisticated handling of the copper plate, utilizing precise cross-hatching and varied line weight, transformed the medium of printmaking into a primary artistic expression capable of conveying complex narrative and emotion. The exceptional quality of the engraving cemented Dürer's reputation as a leading figure in the Northern Renaissance.

The scene is set on a desolate, run-down farm, emphasizing the young man’s abject poverty and spiritual decline. The detailed background, featuring rough wooden Buildings, contrasts sharply with the protagonist's formerly privileged life. The Men subject matter is powerfully represented by the starving son, kneeling amidst the refuse in a gesture of prayer and repentance. Crucially, the presence of the Pigs highlights the depth of his humiliation, as caring for swine was considered the most degrading form of labor. Dürer focuses intently on the internal struggle, capturing the psychological weight of the moment just prior to the son deciding to return home.

As a definitive early example of German Renaissance graphic arts, this remarkable print circulated widely across Europe, solidifying its place in art history. The power and accessibility of Dürer’s engravings ensured his widespread fame, allowing works like this to reach broad audiences, a characteristic inherent to the rise of art prints. This particular impression of The Prodigal Son resides in the esteemed collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where it serves as a cornerstone example of Dürer’s profound contribution to the history of Western art.