Please note that the 2nd floor of the Hamilton Building will be closed to the public on Thursday, April 9, and Friday, April 10, for a private event. The Bodies and Soul exhibition will remain open.
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Sculptures with two figures, like "The Prodigal Son," were relatively common in the mid-nineteenth century. Their popularity was linked to the vogue for narrative art and its demand for characters. In addition, group pieces gave sculptors a chance to display their virtuosity in composition and modeling. This sculpture depicts the Old Testament story of the wastrel son's repentant homecoming and the warm reception by his father. Mozier also called this piece "Prodigal's Return."