One of the greatest artists, Raphael was born in 1483 just
before the Reformation, and was orphaned when he was 11. Growing up amongst
artists, he developed a fascination with art and was a great admirer of
Michelangelo, which one can see in his style.
When he was only 26, Raphael was commissioned to paint this
impressive ceiling fresco of Justice.
Justice is exquisitely beautiful yet terrifyingly powerful. A crown is set upon
her head and she looks down with a slight smile. Clothed in a blush of pink,
she appears very graceful and feminine, belying her strength and power.
Surrounding her is intricate ornamentation as she sits in the heavens on a
throne of clouds. Wielding a sword on high while delicately holding the balance
of justice, she is ready to exercise her power, the truth, by which men are
condemned if they have acted unjustly. The four angels at her sides are afraid
of her power, yet respect it. The fear of the angel looking at the sword brings
to mind the great fear that a person should have of justice and the
consequences she will exact on account of unjust actions, a separation or
severing from God by the cut of her sword.
