Raphael (1483–1520) stands as one of the titans of the Italian High Renaissance, renowned for his exceptional artistic talent and profound influence on Western art. Born in Urbino, Italy, Raphael received early training from his father, a court painter, before studying in Florence, where he absorbed the artistic innovations of Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.
Raphael’s oeuvre reflects a profound understanding of classical forms, harmonious composition, and perspective. His paintings, such as “The School of Athens” and “The Marriage of the Virgin,” exemplify his mastery of technique and his ability to imbue his works with grace and beauty.
In 1508, Raphael was summoned to Rome by Pope Julius II, where he embarked on a series of prestigious commissions, including frescoes for the Vatican’s Stanze di Raffaello (Raphael Rooms) and the design of the Chigi Chapel in Santa Maria del Popolo. These works solidified his reputation as one of the leading artists of his time and established him as a key figure in the High Renaissance.
Raphael’s artistic legacy extends far beyond his own lifetime. His idealized portrayals of beauty, emotional depth, and meticulous attention to detail continue to inspire artists and captivate audiences centuries later. Despite his untimely death at the age of 37, Raphael’s contributions to Western art remain unparalleled, securing his place as one of the greatest painters in history.
Raphael Quotes
01. “And he replied, “Painting the world as it should be, instead of as it is.”
― Raphael
02. “Wise men speak because they have something to say; fools speak because they have to say something.”
― Raphael
03. “But don’t strip me of my humanity because I’m good at playing a part. You do it, too, I’ll wager, put on a smile sometimes even when you’re feeling foul, so don’t deny me those same basic human talents .”
― Raphael
04. “Handsomeness without cleanliness is wasted.”
― Raphael
05. “I once was what you are, and what I am will be also.”
― Raphael
06. “However, even when change is ordained, it’s difficult to fathom how fast it will come, and how unrecoverable it will all be, isn’t it.”
― Raphael
07. “The beauty of paint is its silence.”
― Raphael
08. “There’s nothing more perfect than perfect.”
― Raphael
09. “It’s nice when you have things that you want, but only after everyone else has what they need.”
― Raphael
10. “Fear is nothing but pain arising from the anticipation of evil.”
― Raphael
11. “Satan may never win the war, but he can always win a battle.”
― Raphael
12. “In oils, a perfect brushstroke is all about blending layers. No wonder oils are so good at capturing life: like people, oil paintings are created by blending together weeks, months, years of layer, after unexpected later.”
― Raphael
13. “Now, I know that when everything seems perfect —perhaps especially when everything seems perfect — you must appreciate it because somewhere around some corner, far in the future or just up ahead, things would always be so good.”
― Raphael
14. “When your countries leaders do something good, you get to celebrate the victory as your own, so why shouldn’t you share in the blame when they do something bad?”
― Raphael
15. “Cleverness is a detriment to any courtier, my lady, lest we outshine our ruler; however, attentiveness to humans and their relationships is necessary for keeping your head. It’s also helpful as a portrait painter, although in this case, that talent has tied my noose.”
― Raphael
16. “My mother always told me that to succeed in this world, walk like you know where you’re going, and why — especially if you’re afraid.”
― Raphael
17. “I don’t choose to be alone. I just am.”
― Raphael
18. “For once man has tasted flight, his eyes will always turn toward the skies, for there he shall long to return. And you, Sparrow, have flown in the clouds for a very long time now.”
― Raphael
