Raphael Sanzio (at the age of 23) c. 19th century

Editor: This print by Johann Friedrich Müller depicts Raphael Sanzio at 23. It's a striking portrait. What can you tell me about its context? Curator: It’s interesting to consider how portraits like this shaped Raphael’s public image. This print, likely made well after Raphael's death, participates in the construction of the artist as a genius. How do you think its circulation affected his reception and legacy? Editor: That's fascinating. It reframes my understanding, thinking about how images like this contribute to a carefully crafted art history. Curator: Exactly. It encourages us to question the forces behind the narratives we often take for granted.