This monograph explores the life and work of one of the most important artists in the history of the West, Raphael (Raffaello Sanzio, 1483 1520). Its scope covers Raphael's origins, his early influences, his important Urbino period and subsequently the extraordinary series of frescoes and portraits of his last phase in Rome. Over two hundred of Raphael s finest paintings and drawings are illustrated, accompanied by an accessible yet highly informative text by the distinguished Renaissance scholar Bette Talvacchia. The author also explores Raphael's artistic relationships with such Renaissance masters as Leonardo and Michelangelo, culminating in a brilliant account of his masterpieces done in Rome under the patronage of Popes Julius II and Leo X.