Raphael and the Cult of Beauty as a World-Historical Force | Artnet News
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Raphael and the Cult of Beauty as a World-Historical Force | Artnet News
"Raphael is one of the shining stars of European art history, even if he has played both hero and heel roles: as standard setter for graceful beauty or symbol of academic over-refinement to be rebelled against."
"What is true is that the modern-day audience for Raphael is, generally speaking, neither devout nor connoisseur. They can be told about Biblical iconography or about what makes an autograph Raphael different than a Giulio Romano."
"Above all, to succeed by hungrily synthesizing the new styles emerging in the late 1400s. The first few galleries of the show give you works by his father, the otherwise obscure poet-painter Giovanni Santi."
The Met's exhibition 'Raphael: Sublime Poetry' highlights Raphael's dual role in art history as both a standard setter and a symbol of over-refinement. The opening text describes him as 'one of the greatest influencers of all time,' raising questions about contemporary relevance. While modern audiences may not actively engage with Raphael's work, the exhibition offers a narrative of his evolution as an artist. It features early influences, including works by his father and master, showcasing Raphael's departure from medieval conventions towards a more modern approach.
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