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Etching, 158 x 139 mm. Bartsch 91; BB 36-D; New Hollstein 159, 1st state (of 3).
Impression of the 1st state (of 3) before the numerous retouching in the shadows and the addition of horizontal lines on the left part of the lowest step.
Very fine impression printed on laid paper, the shadows, particularly those on and to the right of the son’s left eye, are still very dark. In very good condition. Tiny foxmark on the left leg of the figure on the right, very slight yellowing of the paper. Good margins all around the platemark (sheet: 197 x 174 mm).
The episode depicted is taken from the Gospel of Saint Luke, chapter XV, verses 20-22: ‘20 So he went off and came to his father. But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion; he ran to his son, threw his arms around his neck and kissed him. 21 Then his son said to him: My father, I have sinned against heaven and against you; and I am no longer worthy to be called your son. 22 Then the father said to his servants: Bring quickly the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his finger, and shoes on his feet.’
