Italy, Rome, Fresco, The School of Athens, by Raffaello Sanzio
The School of Athens - Scuola di Atene - Die Schule der Philosophen
This was the second of a series of wall frescos, Raffaello Sanzio da Urbino, more colloquially known simply as Raphael (1483-1520), painted in the library / study of Pope Julius II. called "Stanza della Segnatura". Raphael placed this wall fresco opposite "La Disputa". It is, without doubt, the most celebrated work by this famous artist. It represents the fictional gathering of the heads of Greek Philosophy. The most important philosophers are here depicted. Mixed in are some of the protagonists of Greek Philosophy in Renaissance times. (Wikipedia has a very detailed identification of the shown personalities. Please Google: The School of Athens).
Type of print: Copper etching
Color: Hand coloring heightened with eggwhite
Engraver: Giuseppe Mochetti
Painter: Raphael (1483-1520)
Lettering: Upper left and upper right: Raphael Santius Pinx - In Aedibus Vaticanis
Below image: Pio Septimo Pontifici Opt. Maximo. Haeredes Franzetti D.D.D.
The series of copper etchings was commissioned by Pope Pius VII (1742-1823)
Published: Rome, ca. 1820
"Scuola di Atene" is one of three major fresco paintings in "Stanza della Segnatura". The other ones: "La Disputa" and "Parnassus".
Condition: The superb hand coloring is EXACTLY corresponding to the original fresco painting by Raphael. This distinguishes the engraving profoundly from modern hand coloring done by colorists often without regard to the original. The hand coloring moreover is extremely professionally executed. It is highlighted with eggwhite for it's stunning appearance. The image is flawless. Margins are wide on all sides. Only in margins are traces of age and use: some spotting and a faint stain along the lower margin edge. In general: The condition of this print may be considered as being Very Good!
Measurements -
Image: 34,7 x 49 cm (ca.13.7 x 19.3")
Plate mark: 39,5 x 51,5 cm (ca. 15.5 x 20.3")
Sheet: 50 x 62 cm (19.7 x 24.5")
