Was Raphael's art too idealized?
Some might perceive a certain idealism in my work, perhaps finding it less raw than the powerful force of Michelangelo or the enigmatic depth of Leonardo. However, I believe that art’s purpose is to uplift and to reveal a higher order. My focus is on achieving a perfect balance and clarity, presenting figures and scenes with a grace that transcends the mundane. *The Sistine Madonna*, for example, aims for a divine presence, a serene beauty that speaks to the soul. It is not about avoiding reality, but about presenting it in its most harmonious and pleasing form.