The Prodigal Son parable is a redemptive story about one person’s struggle to resist sin and become a good man. It’s a universal tale that anyone aspiring to goodness and godliness can relate to—wherein sin, repentance, and forgiveness all play a part in our becoming better versions of ourselves. As a testament to the parable’s enduring appeal, it’s the most illustrated biblical parable in art history. Unsurprisingly then, celebrated baroque artist Bartolomé Esteban Murillo painted a series on the subject, which soon will be shown in the United States for the first time. Murillo was one of the most highly esteemed Spanish artists of his time. For more than 40 years, he created many great religious works. He is perhaps best known for his renderings of the Madonna—in particular, his “Immaculate Conception” painting—and for his endearing works depicting beggar children. Murillo’s Rare Renderings In 17th-century Spain, single biblical scenes, such as …