Raphael’s untimely death at the age of 37 while at the height of his visual powers only solidified the legend of his extraordinary talent. Raphael, an introduction by Dr. Heather Graham
Whose side are you on? Two great philosophers of antiquity, Plato and Aristotle, face off in this meeting of minds. Raphael, School of Athens by Dr. Steven Zucker and Dr. Beth Harris
Who gets the girl? This event may be sacred, but Raphael treats us to a very human performance. Raphael, Marriage of the Virgin by Dr. Beth Harris and Dr. Steven Zucker
With her twisting, spiraling body, this beautiful sea nymph embodies the complexity of High Renaissance movement. Raphael, Galatea by Dr. Steven Zucker and Dr. Beth Harris
Strike a pose! As Mary looks on, her elegant son strokes a goldfinch—but this isn’t child’s play. Raphael, Madonna of the Goldfinch by Dr. Steven Zucker and Dr. Beth Harris
This modest painting never feels cramped in its circular frame. For all her humility, Mary has a monumental grace. Raphael, The Alba Madonna by Dr. Beth Harris and Dr. Steven Zucker
No throne? With Raphael, beauty stands in for divinity, and nature itself becomes Mary’s domain. Raphael, La belle jardinière (Madonna and Child ... by Dr. Beth Harris and Dr. Steven Zucker
A florin for your thoughts, Pope. As the aging patron sits musing, he clenches his teeth and grips a handkerchief. Raphael, Portrait of Pope Julius II by Beth Harris and Steven Zucker
Raphael’s rich palette put the papacy in the red—as did Leo X. This Medici pope spent Church money with abandon. Raphael, Pope Leo X by Christine Zappella