The Return of the Prodigal Son

In one of his last works, Rembrandt shows the ragged son kneeling in his father's tender embrace, bathed in warm, forgiving light. Hushed and deeply moving, it distils a lifetime's mastery of emotion and shadow. It is among the most compassionate images in art.

The Return of the Prodigal Son

Rembrandt van Rijn

  • Datec. 1668
  • MovementDutch Golden Age
  • WhereHermitage Museum, Saint Petersburg
  • RegionRussia