Philosophy at the Museum: Raphael

When the visions of Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo seemed to meet in a single artist, he appeared. He brought together classical beauty, Christian devotion, and perfect compositional balance, becoming the very image of the High Renaissance ideal. In only 37 years, he rose to embody an age that believed in harmony, clarity, and human perfection. And when he died, it felt as though an entire world had passed with him — the close of one era, and the first opening of another. Join us as we explore the Met’s special exhibition on Raphael, a once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience more than 170 works brought together from across the globe. Through his paintings and drawings, we will trace both the height of Renaissance beauty and the fragile moment when its confidence began to fade. ​​​The event will include facilitator introductions, guided questions, and rotating small-group activities across three sections of the exhibition. All participants must follow museum norms and respect gallery etiquette.