Vatican stamps year 1962 Ecumenical congress, paintings by Raphael MNH

Vatican stamps year 1962 Ecumenical congress, paintings by Raphael MNH full set

Raphael, a master of the High Renaissance, created numerous iconic artworks that continue to influence art today. Here are some of his most celebrated paintings:

1. The Transfiguration (1516-1520)
   • Medium: Tempera on wood
   • Location: Pinacoteca dei Musei Vaticani, Vatican City
   • Description: This is considered one of Raphael’s masterpieces, depicting the transfiguration of Jesus alongside prophets Moses and Elijah, with a dramatic scene below showing the healing of a possessed boy. The painting showcases Raphael’s evolution in style and complexity.
2. The School of Athens (1509-1511)
   • Medium: Fresco
   • Location: Vatican Museums
   • Description: A tribute to classical philosophy, this fresco features prominent philosophers such as Plato and Aristotle at its center, surrounded by other great thinkers. It is renowned for its harmonious composition and architectural perspective.
3. Sistine Madonna (c. 1513-1514)
   • Medium: Oil on canvas
   • Location: Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister, Dresden
   • Description: This painting portrays the Virgin Mary holding the Christ child, flanked by saints. The work is notable for its ethereal quality and the iconic cherubs at the bottom.
4. La Fornarina (c. 1518-1519)
   • Medium: Oil on canvas
   • Location: Palazzo Barberini, Rome
   • Description: This portrait of his lover Margarita Luti is celebrated for its sensuality and has become a symbol of love and passion in art history.
5. The Triumph of Galatea (1512)
   • Medium: Fresco
   • Location: Villa Farnesina, Rome
   • Description: This dynamic fresco depicts the sea nymph Galatea in a chariot pulled by dolphins, celebrating beauty and movement through vibrant colors.
6. Madonna of the Goldfinch (1506)
   • Medium: Oil on panel
   • Location: Uffizi Gallery, Florence
   • Description: This early work features the Virgin Mary with Jesus and John the Baptist, showcasing Raphael’s early mastery of composition influenced by Leonardo da Vinci.
7. The Baglioni Altarpiece (1507)
   • Medium: Oil on canvas
   • Location: Borghese Gallery, Rome
   • Description: Known for its emotional depth and dramatic composition, this altarpiece depicts Christ’s deposition from the cross.

These paintings exemplify Raphael’s skill in blending classical themes with emotional depth and technical precision, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest artists in Western art history.