
The School of Athens (by Raphael)
"The School of Athens" by Raphael is a Renaissance masterpiece depicting a gathering of great philosophers, mathematicians, and scientists from classical antiquity engaged in intellectual discourse. Set in an idealized architectural space, it symbolizes the pursuit of knowledge and the harmony of different areas of thought. Notable figures like Plato and Aristotle are central, representing different philosophical views, surrounded by others like Socrates and Pythagoras. The painting emphasizes the importance of thinking, learning, and the cultural revival of classical ideas during the Renaissance, blending artistic excellence with philosophical symbolism.