Raphael. The Complete Paintings, Frescoes, Tapestries, Architecture

Raphael is one of the most important artists of the Italian High Renaissance, known for his around one hundred paintings and numerous frescoes on various themes. He created altarpieces, designed tapestries for the Sistine Chapel, and directed the construction of St. Peters Basilica. His Sistine Madonna is one of the most frequently reproduced religious paintings of all time. This XXL edition is the most comprehensive work published on Raphael, featuring 112 paintings, frescoes, architectural projects, and tapestries, along with an extensive catalogue raisonné of his oeuvre.

Format: Hardback
Publication date: 10 November 2022
Publisher: Taschen GmbH

Raphael, the esteemed artist of the Italian High Renaissance, stands alongside Michelangelo and Leonardo as one of the most influential figures of his era. During his brief lifetime, he created an astonishing one hundred paintings and numerous frescoes, showcasing an unparalleled range of themes. From the sensual allure of female beauty to the ancient myths and portraits of wealthy Romans and church dignitaries, Raphael's artistic prowess encompassed a vast spectrum of subjects. His artistic journey included nine remarkable fresco cycles, each depicting different narratives and scenes. In addition to his paintings, Raphael's contributions extended to the realm of altarpieces and tapestries. He played a key role in designing the stunning tapestries for the Sistine Chapel and directed the construction of St. Peter's Basilica, two of the most iconic religious structures in history. Among his masterpieces, the Sistine Madonna stands as one of the most reproduced religious paintings of all time, capturing the essence of divine grace and beauty. Raphael's artistic journey was marked by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and innovation. He was a true visionary, refusing to rest on tried and tested solutions but instead constantly pushing the boundaries of his imagination. Through his art, he transformed his central theme of the visionary experience of divine grace into a visible pictorial reality, leaving an indelible mark on the art world. His mature works in Rome, particularly the frescoes in the Vatican Palace, solidified his place in art history as one of the most modern artists of his time. Admired even during his lifetime, Raphael's mastery paved the way for the subsequent movements of Mannerism and the Baroque era, shaping the artistic landscape for generations to come. This XXL edition, published in celebration of Raphael's remarkable legacy, represents the most comprehensive work ever published on the artist. Spanning a total of 112 paintings and all the frescoes, architectural projects, and tapestries, the volume is accompanied by an extensive catalogue raisonné that provides a detailed account of Raphael's oeuvre. A team of esteemed Raphael experts guides the reader through the fascinating interplay of art and power in the High Renaissance, shedding light on the social, political, and cultural context that shaped Raphael's artistic endeavors. In conclusion, Raphael's artistic brilliance and his unwavering commitment to innovation have left an indelible mark on the history of art. His short but remarkable life produced an extraordinary body of work that continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide. This XXL edition, with its comprehensive coverage and insightful commentary, serves as a testament to Raphael's enduring legacy and his profound contribution to the High Renaissance.

Dimension: 395 x 290 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783836557023