LOMBARD SCHOOL, 17TH CENTURY | THE RETURN OF THE PRODIGAL SON

The coloration and poses of the figures in this religious scene are consistent with Lombard painting of the 17th century, for example the works of Giovanni Battista Benaschi (1636 - 1688). The artist has depicted the moment the Prodigal son is welcomed home by his father, who prepares a feast for his son despite his sins.

It has also been suggested that the scene could depict the Old Testament characters Tobit and his son Tobias. At the suggestion of the angel Raphael, Tobias uses a fish's gall to cure his elderly father's blindness.