The Prodigal Son

sculpture by Constantin Brancusi

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July 13, 2026

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The sculpture "The Prodigal Son" was created by Constantin Brancusi in 1914. Brancusi, a Romanian-born sculptor, was a pioneer of modern abstract sculpture. He is known for his elegant use of pure form and exquisite finishing in materials like bronze and marble.

"The Prodigal Son" is one of Brancusi's early works in wood, specifically oak. It features a roughly carved human form, abstracting the features of a person. This piece reflects Brancusi's interest in direct carving and the influence of Romanian folk art, which he experienced in his youth. The title refers to the biblical parable of the son who squandered his inheritance.12

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Constantin Brancusi
Maturity of Constantin Brancusi
His first sculpture in wood, The Prodigal Son, in 1914, is roughly carved in oak with the features of a human being abstracted. Brancusi went on to create a whole series of wood sculptures that are among his most unusual works. He attached great importance to the wooden base of…
Read More
His first sculpture in wood, The Prodigal Son, in 1914, is roughly carved in oak with the features of a human being abstracted. Brancusi went on to create a whole series of wood sculptures that are among his most unusual works. He attached great importance to the wooden base of…
Read More