June 19, 2011. (Romereports.com) It's described as majestic, unique and of course priceless. It's the “Madonna of Foligno,” one of Raphael's greatest masterpieces. The painting was done in the Vatican by the great high Renaissance artist in the 16th century. Since then, it usually hangs in the Vatican's Pinacoteca gallery.


Antonio Paolucci
Director of the Vatican Museum
“Raphael presents her as a beautiful Madonna. Interestingly, he gives the Madonna the face of his fiancee, the famous Fornarina.”

In September, the pope will visit his home country of Germany, with a special gift in store for the city of Dresden. Even though he won't visit that city, he'll send the Madonna of Foligno to the Staatliche Kunstsammlungen museum in Dresden,where it will remain until January 8, 2012. There, the painting will be showcased with the Madonna Sistina, another one of Raphael's masterpieces that's already in Germany.

The last time the so called “sister” paintings were together, was probably in Raphael's workshop. Both pieces were done within a short time of each other and both show a strong resemblance to one another.

Antonio Paolucci
Director of the Vatican Museum
“Practically anyone visiting the city of Dresden next September, can see firsthand Europe's Renaissance at its highest.”

Despite his long list of accomplishments Raphael lived a short life. He died when he was only 37.
Both of these paintings reflect Raphael's unique style. They highlight the strength of the Madonna, by showcasing her motherly care. It's bold, yet soft.

Arnold Nesselrath
Vatican Museum Curator
“At the feet of the Madonna, at left side  the image of children, crowded children, is the same scene Raphael used as a model for the children he painted in the Madonna Sistina.”

During the four month exhibit in Germany, other Madonna paintings done by German artists from that same period will also be showcased, along with Raphael's sister paintings.

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