The return of the prodigal son

Rembrandt van Rijn painted this etching of the prodigal son's return around 1654, a subject he explored throughout his career. The ragged son kneels before his father, who places both hands on the young man's shoulders in a gesture of forgiveness. Other figures watch from the shadows, including the resentful older brother mentioned in the biblical parable.

Rembrandt returned to this theme in his final years, creating a monumental painting at the Hermitage. This earlier work shows his virtuosity with line and tone. The print is held by the Cleveland Museum of Art, part of their collection of Dutch Golden Age prints and drawings.