Study of a Head and Left Shoulder of a Woman

This detailed study by Raphael is preparatory for the central figure in his famous painting of the Transfiguration (Vatican Museum). The classical female profile and the muscular shoulder show how Raphael was searching for the epitome of feminine beauty. Eventually, in the painting, the arm would be further foreshortened, while the face would be more expressive.

Study of a Head and Left Shoulder of a Woman

This detailed study by Raphael is preparatory for the central figure in his famous painting of the Transfiguration (Vatican Museum). The classical female profile and the muscular shoulder show how Raphael was searching for the epitome of feminine beauty. Eventually, in the painting, the arm would be further foreshortened, while the face would be more expressive.