The Prodigal Son is a series of 6 paintings by Bartolome Estaban Murillo (1617-1682), a master of the Spanish Golden Age. They were painted in the 1660’s and depict the narrative of St Luke’s Gospel story, The Prodigal Son, exploring the themes of sin, regret and redemption set against a background of 17th Century Seville.
These paintings have a deep connection to Russborough. Once part of the Beit Collection, they were gifted, along with eleven other masterpieces, to the National Gallery of Ireland in 1987 by Sir Alfred and Lady Beit. The Prodigal Son series was so important to them, that all six pictures returned to Russborough for six months each year, until 2002.
Meticulous restoration and research by the Gallery began in 2012, taking six years to complete. Following significant exhibitions at the Gallery and internationally, these six masterpieces now make their long-awaited return to Russborough for visitors to experience them in their last historic home.
This exhibition is both a celebration of Murillo’s genius and testament to the enduring legacy of the Beits, whose remarkable legacy continues to enrich Ireland’s cultural heritage.
Well done to tour guide, Martina, for an interesting and humerous tour of the house.
