This website presents our knowledge and research on this important aspect of the Royal Collection. As of April 2026 it will not be regularly updated and new research on this topic will sit within the main website.

Vatican Frescoes

Vatican Frescoes

Studies for statues

c.1853-76

Albumen print | RCIN 852566

A photograph of a drawing by Raphael (c.1509) now in the Ashmolean Museum, Oxford (inv. no.WA1846.192).

The studies connect with the statue of Minerva occurring at upper right in 'The School of Athens' and with other niched statues painted nearby on the wall of the right aisle and in the right transept. On the inverted page is a figure study which has been often described as a preliminary sketch for the philosopher descending steps. For further discussion, see Bibliographic References.
  • Acquired for the Prince Consort's Raphael Collection (c.1853-76)