Raffaello Sanzio da Urbino ( Raphael * 1483 † 1520 )

Artist Raphael

Immerse yourself in the world of the High Renaissance with the masterpieces of Raphael, the genius of classical harmony and beauty. His impressive Madonna paintings and monumental frescoes embody the perfection of this era. Choose your favorite work and enjoy it as a high-quality art print, stylishly framed canvas, modern poster, or artfully hand-painted painting in custom sizes.

Raphael was born on April 6, 1483, in Urbino as the son of a painter. He was exposed to art at an early age and received his training under Pietro Perugino in Perugia. Between 1500 and 1504, he settled in Florence, where he studied the works of Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Fra Bartolommeo, and Andrea del Sarto. However, he did not simply adopt their style but developed his own visual language, known for its harmonious composition, gentle color palette, and idealized beauty. Florence became an important source of inspiration for him, where he achieved artistic maturity.

In 1508, he was likely recommended by Bramante, the head architect of St. Peter's Basilica, for a commission in Rome, after which Raphael was summoned by the Pope to the Vatican. There, he adorned a series of rooms with magnificent frescoes, including the famous "School of Athens," considered the epitome of the High Renaissance. During this period, his art reached its zenith and became a benchmark for harmony, clarity, and classical beauty. In addition to the monumental frescoes, he created numerous Madonna paintings, renowned for their graceful elegance and affectionate portrayal.

After Bramante's death, Raphael took over the architectural direction of St. Peter's, thus also emerging as an architect. His architectural designs demonstrated his sense of proportion and his ability to blend classical ideals with modern construction techniques. During his time in Rome, he also produced many portraits of prominent figures, including popes and cardinals, which solidified his reputation as a master of portraiture.

Raphael is considered one of the greatest artists of the High Renaissance, alongside Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, as he most perfectly embodied the essence of this era. His style became pioneering for subsequent generations and influenced numerous painters and architects. Like Titian and Albrecht Dürer, he recognized early on the importance of new media and had his works disseminated through engravings and prints, which expanded his fame beyond Italy. His art embodies the ideal beauty and perfection characteristic of the Renaissance.

On April 6, 1520, his 37th birthday, Raphael passed away in Rome, leaving behind an extensive body of work that remains the epitome of classical harmony. He is also known by the names Raphael of Urbino, Raffaello Santi, Raffaello Sanzio, or Raphael. His influence on art history is immeasurable, and his works like "The Sistine Madonna" and "The School of Athens" are among the greatest masterpieces of humanity.

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