The story of the prodigal son has been a popular choice for artists and patrons. Some chose to depict the prodigal’s bawdy behavior and wanton spending, while others emphasized the poverty and hardship that resulted from his dissolute life. Rembrandt’s famous painting shows the prodigal’s return and his father’s welcome in a deeply moving portrayal of love and forgiveness. In this presentation, we will focus on the painting in the context of Rembrandt’s life and career, learning how it stands apart from more typical treatments of the story.