US Stamps 2011 Madonna of the Candelabra 5 Sheets of 20

US Stamps 2011 Madonna of the Candelabra 5 Sheets of 20 Traditional Christmas Mint Booklet Pane The graceful style and mastery of subtle lighting seen in Madonna and Candelabra are hallmarks of Raffaello Sanzio da Urbino (1483-1520). Along with Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael is considered one of the three great masters of the High Renaissance period. Like Raphaels masterpiece Madonna of Foligno, Madonna and Candelabra reflects both the religious theme common to the era and his life experiences. Born in Urbino, part of the Papal States, Raphael was the son of a dukes court painter. He was orphaned early and raised by his uncle Bartolomeo, a priest. The close relationship between the courts and the church was a constant in Raphaels life, influencing his choice of art subjects as he moved within the highest circles of aristocracy and the Catholic Church. In demand at an early age, Raphael was commissioned throughout northern Italy before returning to Rome in 1508. He established a workshop with some 50 pupils and assistants, many of whom contributed to Raphaels work. Experts believe the angel to the left of baby Jesus in Madonna and Candelabra was painted by one of the colleagues. However, the clarity, grace, and harmony of the painting is a signature of Raphaels artistic genius. The condition of the stamp is as shown in the image and is suitable for paying postage or collecting.