Raphael Sanzio

Raphael Sanzio, born the son of a court painter in Urbino, grew up surrounded by art and music, learning to paint almost as soon as he could hold a brush. Even though he was orphaned by the age of 11, he grew up trusting others and viewing the world as a loving place.

Dashing, full of life, and celebrated as a great artist, Raphael was a star in the Pope's court by the age of 26. He was also known as the kindest and gentlest of men. While Leonardo and Michelangelo were revered as artistic giants, Raphael was both revered and adored.

For years, he was engaged to marry a cardinal's niece, a great honor for an artist, but he kept postponing the wedding. In truth, he loved a baker's daughter who served as his model for the Virgin Mary. When Raphael died suddenly at 37, all of Rome was plunged into grief.