Portret van Rafaël 1823 - 1857

This is Zéphirin Belliard’s 19th-century rendering of the Renaissance artist Raphael. Belliard, living in a time of evolving artistic and social norms, offers us more than just a portrait; he provides a glimpse into the enduring legacy and romanticized image of Renaissance masters. The delicate lines of the engraving capture the soft features of Raphael, presenting him in a way that emphasizes his youth and perceived gentility. Notice the longing in his eyes, which invites viewers into a personal, almost intimate encounter. The gaze and attire—the dark cap and robe—frame Raphael not merely as an artist but as an intellectual. Belliard’s work invites us to reflect on the construction of artistic genius and the role of portraiture in shaping historical memory. How does Belliard’s vision of Raphael speak to the long shadow of the Renaissance and its continuing impact on artistic identity and cultural values?