Creative Commons License
Creative Commons License
Wax Tablet with the Prodigal Son
(Medieval Europe )
The plaque illustrates the first two scenes of the story of the Prodigal Son and should be read from bottom to top. In the first scene, the father divides his inheritance as the Prodigal, who is shown in an elegant hat, is observed by his mother and brother. Above, the Prodigal rides with his hawk, followed by a servant with a chest full of treasure. As they approach a young woman, the servant raises a warning finger.
The scenes are set beneath canopies of trefoil arches. There are two holes drilled in the center at the sides for cords to attach the leaf to others. The back is recessed to receive a coat of wax for writing.
Provenance
Provenance (from the French provenir, 'to come from/forth') is the chronology of the ownership, custody, or location of a historical object. Learn more about provenance at the Walters.
[Fictile cast in the Victoria and Albert Museum, 1873-165]; Max and Maurice Rosenheim, London [date and mode of acquisition unknown]; Rosenheim Sale, Sotheby's, London, May 9-11, 1923, lot 294; William T. / Henry Walters Collection, Baltimore [date of acquisition unknown], by purchase; Walters Art Museum, 1931, by bequest.
Exhibitions
| 1962 | The International Style: The Arts in Europe Around 1400. The Walters Art Gallery, Baltimore. |
Geographies
France, Paris (Place of Origin)
Measurements
H: 4 9/16 x W: 2 1/2 in. (11.6 x 6.3 cm)
Credit Line
Acquired by William T. or Henry Walters
Location in Museum
Not on view
Accession Number
In libraries, galleries, museums, and archives, an accession number is a unique identifier assigned to each object in the collection.
In libraries, galleries, museums, and archives, an accession number is a unique identifier assigned to each object in the collection.
71.279