The Marriage of the Virgin 1504

Raphael's *The Marriage of the Virgin* (1504) is a quintessential example of High Renaissance art, known for its balance, clarity, and harmonious composition. The scene depicts the marriage ceremony of the Virgin Mary and Joseph, set against a backdrop of a classical temple. The figures are arranged in a pyramid shape, with Mary and Joseph at the center, drawing the viewer's eye to the central moment of the union. The painting's intricate details, including the meticulously rendered architecture and the expressive faces of the figures, reveal Raphael's mastery of perspective and human anatomy. Currently housed in the Palazzo Brera in Milan, this artwork represents a key moment in Raphael's artistic development, showcasing his transition from the influence of his predecessors to his own unique style.