Raphael Sanzio, known simply as Raphael, was born in 1483 in the small town of Urbino, Italy. He was the son of a court painter, and began his artistic training at a young age. He is considered one of the greatest painters of the High Renaissance period, alongside Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.
At the age of 17, Raphael moved to Perugia, where he worked as an apprentice to the painter Perugino. He developed a reputation as a talented artist and began to receive commissions for his own work. In 1504, he moved to Florence, where he was heavily influenced by the work of Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.
Famous Paintings by Raphael
In 1508, Raphael was summoned to Rome by Pope Julius II to work on a series of frescoes in the Vatican Palace. These works, known as the Raphael Rooms (Room of the Signatura, Room of Heliodorus, Hall of Constantine, Room of the Fire in the Borgo) and the Vatican Loggia. They are considered some of the greatest masterpieces of the High Renaissance and are known for their harmony, balance, and beauty.
The School of Athens (1509-1511, Room of the Signatura, left) and The Expulsion of Heliodorus from the Temple (1509-1511, Room of Heliodorus, right)
Battle of Ostia (1514-1515, Room of the Fire in the Borgo, left) and The Vision of the Cross (1520-1524, Hall of Constantine, right)
Vatican Loggia (1519)
In addition to his work in the Vatican, Raphael also painted a number of other important works during his time in Rome, including the Sistine Madonna and the Transfiguration. He also continued to receive commissions for portraits and altarpieces throughout Italy.
The Sistine Madonna (c. 1513-1514, left) and he Transfiguration (1516-1520, right)
Raphael died in 1520 at the age of 37 in Rome. His death was a great loss to the art world and his influence can be seen in the work of many painters who came after him. His legacy continues to be celebrated to this day, and his artwork is widely considered to be some of the greatest masterpieces of the High Renaissance.
Artist Raphael
Raphael’s art is known for its harmony, balance, and beauty, and his work is characterized by a strong sense of realism and attention to detail. His figures are often depicted with a graceful and harmonious movement, and his use of color is considered particularly beautiful. In addition, his famous Madonnas are known for its serenity and grace.
