Raphael Sanzio

Raphael Sanzio's paintings balance figures and architecture in devotional images, portraits, and papal frescoes. In the Madonna of the Pinks, Mary and Christ exchange carnations, flowers associated with divine love and Christ's Passion. The School of Athens gathers classical philosophers in the Vatican's Room of the Segnatura. Painted for Pope Julius II's library and private study, the room joins philosophy with theology, poetry, and justice. Drawings helped Raphael refine poses and groups.