Thuiskomst van de verloren zoon 1550 - 1587

"Homecoming of the prodigal son" was etched by Abraham de Bruyn in the late 16th century. The print captures a biblical scene set against a landscape, encapsulating the era's complex intersection of religious narrative and societal values. In this scene, the son's return isn't merely a personal redemption but also a restoration of social order. The act of kneeling signifies deference and acceptance of patriarchal norms, as the father’s embrace reinforces the prodigal son's reintegration into the family and community. The etching speaks to the dynamics of repentance, forgiveness, and the hierarchical structures that defined the period. Bruyn uses the biblical narrative to explore themes of morality, family, and the individual's place within the broader social fabric, inviting viewers to contemplate the complexities of human relationships and societal expectations.