ITALIAN SCHOOL. sooooooose SPADA. 066000000000 FRENCH MUSEUM.

THE RETURN OF THE PRODIGAL SON.

Although it is not easy to combine a truly historical composition with half length figures, Leo Spada has, in this picture, very finely represented one of the most touching scenes in the New Testament; and it is one of the artist's best productions. The expression of the Prodigal Son is admirable, he is almost heard to pronounce the words : « Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee. The colouring of this figure is full of vigour and truth its arms, which are fore-shortened, are designed and painted in great perfection: the linen is light and flowing: the tone of the picture is highly harmonious. The action of the father is full of sentiment; he is eager to cover, with his purple mantle, the nakedness of his son, whose errors he willingly forgives. The head of the good old man is of a noble character; his half-closed eyes show his pity: his countenance expresses compassion and love; that of the son displays repentance and hope.

This picture has been engraved by Fossoyeux.

Height, 4 feet 9 inches; width, 3 feet 9 inches.