description Transfiguration (Raphael) Overview
The Transfiguration is an altarpiece begun by Raphael around 1516 and left unfinished at his death in 1520, with parts completed by members of his workshop, probably including Giulio Romano. Its upper register shows the radiant Christ with Moses and Elijah, while the lower register depicts the apostles confronting a possessed boy whom they cannot heal. Painted in oil on wood, it is housed in the Vatican Pinacoteca.
insights Ranking position
Transfiguration (Raphael) ranks #1 of 206 in the Altarpiece ranking, ahead of Ghent Altarpiece (Mystic Lamb).
help Transfiguration (Raphael) FAQ
Why does Raphael's Transfiguration contain two different biblical episodes?
The upper half shows Christ's Transfiguration with Moses and Elijah, while the lower half depicts the apostles failing to cure a possessed boy. Raphael connects spiritual revelation above with human suffering and confusion below.
Who completed the Transfiguration after Raphael died?
Raphael left the altarpiece unfinished when he died in 1520. Members of his workshop completed remaining passages, with Giulio Romano often identified as a likely participant.
Was Raphael's Transfiguration displayed at his funeral?
The painting was reportedly placed near Raphael's body during his funeral observances in Rome. This association helped make the unfinished commission feel like the artist's final artistic testament.
Where can visitors see Raphael's Transfiguration today?
The altarpiece is housed in the Vatican Museums in Vatican City. It was originally commissioned for Narbonne Cathedral in France but never reached its intended altar.
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