Page "Raphael" Paragraph 45

Vasari emphasises that Raphael ran a very harmonious and efficient workshop, and had extraordinary skill in smoothing over troubles and arguments with both patrons and his assistants — a contrast with the stormy pattern of Michelangelo's relationships with both.

However though both Penni and Giulio were sufficiently skilled that distinguishing between their hands and that of Raphael himself is still sometimes difficult, there is no doubt that many of Raphael's later wall-paintings, and probably some of his easel paintings, are more notable for their design than their execution.

Many of his portraits, if in good condition, show his brilliance in the detailed handling of paint right up to the end of his life.