Raphael

Raphael, full name Raffaello Sanzio da Urbino, was an Italian painter and architect of the High Renaissance. He was born in Urbino around 1483/1484 and died in Rome on April 6, 1520. Renowned for his clarity of form, balanced compositions, and ease of expression, he helped shape the visual ideals of the period alongside Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.

Early in his career, Raphael trained with Pietro Perugino in Umbria, absorbing techniques in perspective and serene figure horizontal. He later worked in Florence, where his style absorbed Florentine influences before he relocated to Rome in 1508, where he remained until his death. In Rome, he completed numerous paintings, frescoes, and architectural projects, and he led a large workshop that produced many works for papal commissions.

Raphael is celebrated for his Madonnas, his masterfully composed frescos in the Vatican, and his refined portraiture. Among his most famous works are the School of Athens, part of the Stanze di Raffaello in the Vatican, which exemplifies the synthesis of classical philosophy and Renaissance artistry. The Transfiguration, completed shortly before his death, is often regarded as his supreme achievement. Other notable works include various Madonna paintings and portraits such as the Portrait of Baldassare Castiglione.

In addition to painting, Raphael contributed to architecture; from 1514 he served as the chief architect of St. Peter’s Basilica, shaping plans for projects in the Vatican and the broader Roman program. His innovative approach to composition and harmony influenced generations of artists and helped define the High Renaissance canon.