Prodigal Son Keeping his Swine 1538

Curator: What a striking composition! The diagonal line from the lower left to the upper right really draws the eye. Editor: Indeed. We’re looking at Sebald Beham’s "Prodigal Son Keeping his Swine." Beham, active in the 16th century, captures the biblical scene in this small print, only about 7 by 12 centimeters, currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. Curator: The way Beham uses hatching and cross-hatching is remarkable, creating such depth and texture. Look at the rugged landscape versus the softness of the swine. Editor: Right, and remember Beham was part of the Little Masters, a group known for their small-scale, intricate engravings. This print demonstrates how religious narratives were being reshaped by the Reformation. It’s a moment of introspection set against a changing social landscape. Curator: The contrast between the kneeling figure and the grazing pigs really underscores the prodigal son's degradation, and the landscape behind, his isolation. Editor: It really makes one think about the socio-economic implications of sin and repentance in that period. The artist’s attention to the details, like the texture of the pigs, is impressive. Curator: Agreed. It’s a study in textures, a visual exploration of form and spirit, all in a remarkably intimate format. Editor: A humbling piece. The social context enriches the impact of Beham's artistry.