Although the pandemic is still halting our trips around the world, Shenzheners now can admire Renaissance master Raphael’s original paintings and a few reproductions, as well as other Renaissance artists’ works, at the newly opened “Raphael and the Classical Canon: Masterpieces From The Accademia Nazionale Di San Luca” exhibition at Nanshan Museum. Entry is free.
The exhibition features two of Raphael’s original works, detached fresco “Putto Reggifestone” and oil on panel transferred to canvas “Saint Luke Paints the Virgin.” Reproductions of his other paintings and sketches, some original paintings by Raphael’s teacher Pietro Perugino and works by other Renaissance artists Raphael influenced are also on display.
The 68 exhibits are displayed in nine sections, elaborating Raphael’s achievements and his influences. Also known as Raffaello Sanzio, the Italian painter and architect of the High Renaissance is admired for the clarity of form, ease of composition and visual achievement of human grandeur in his works. Together with Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, they form the traditional trinity of great masters of that period.
In addition to paintings, frescos and sculptures, a video at the exhibition clearly explains the fascinating composition in “The School of Athens” which Raphael painted between 1509 and 1511. The subjects, building, composition and his use of color make it a compelling piece. With various tools, Raphael was able to emphasize different aspects and pull viewers into the work. (Shenzhen Daily)
Dates: Until June 27
Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m., closed Mondays but open May 3
Booking: WeChat account "nanshanmuseum"
Venue: Nanshan Museum, Nanshan District (南山区南山博物馆)
Metro: Line 1 to Taoyuan Station (桃园站), Exit B
