Thuiskomst van de verloren zoon c. 1560 - 1595

This is Julius Goltzius's engraving, "The Return of the Prodigal Son," made in the late 16th century. Reflecting the religious and social values of the time, the artwork brings to life the well-known parable from the Bible. Goltzius places the emotional climax of the story at center stage. The son’s return is a moment laden with shame, reconciliation, and unconditional love. Stripped bare, the son kneels, his body language speaking of repentance. It suggests an appeal for forgiveness and a longing for acceptance. What does it mean to return, especially when one has squandered their inheritance and dignity? The embrace that follows isn't just a gesture of familial love, but it is also a powerful symbol of divine grace. The father’s willingness to forgive flies in the face of societal expectations. It offers a narrative that values redemption over retribution. How does this image challenge the rigid social structures of the time? Consider the dynamics of class and morality, the potential for change, and the possibility of societal redemption.