One of the most celebrated artists of the Italian Renaissance, Raphael (Raffaello Santi or Sanzio) was admired for his talent, charisma, and adaptability. Raphael quickly gained fame for his refined portraits and religious works, synthesizing the innovations of his peers like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo into a harmonious and distinctive style. In 1508, he was summoned to Rome by Pope Julius II, whose commission of the Vatican frescoes—most notably the School of Athens—secured Raphael’s reputation as the leading artist of his generation. At his untimely death in 1520 at age 37, Raphael was celebrated across Europe and honored with burial in the Roman Pantheon.

Speaker: Dr. Heather Graham

CHAPTERS

0:01 A Self-Portrait of Promise

0:31 Origins in Urbino

1:15 Learning in Florence

1:25 Master of Adaptation

2:06 Art for Private Devotion and Portraiture

2:20 Summoned to Rome

2:30 Decorating the Pope’s Rooms

2:52 A Flourishing Roman Career

3:46 Legacy and Early Death

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Find more resources about the Italian Renaissance: https://www.artsq.org/italian-renaissance-art-history

Check out our entire glossary of art history: https://www.artsq.org/about-key-terms-ideas-art-history