Probably portrait of Raphael

Imitator of Raphael

Portrait of a young man
Probably portrait of Raphael

National Gallery, London

• This painting has in the past been described as a portrait of Raphael and the sitter does indeed resemble him. Recent examination suggests that the picture is an old one but the face is entirely repainted and the painting seems artificially aged. It also appears at one time to have been attributed to Raphael's associate, Timoteo Viti (1469 - 1523). The work may be Umbrian, and is probably of the very early 16th century. It was probably purchased by George Salting (at a high price) as a self portrait by Raphael.

• On a subtle and more significant level, Leonardo at this time transformed the two greatest young artists to come in contact with him. Raphael came to Florence in 1504 at the age of 21, eager to increase his knowledge of perspective and anatomy, and he quickly revealed Leonardo's influence in his portraits and Madonnas; his results were less intellectual, psychological, and energetic and more coolly formal, but with Leonardo's vitality.