Ezekiel's Vision (Raphael)

Ezekiel's Vision is a painting by the High Renaissance Italian artist Raphael, created circa 1518. It depicts the Old Testament prophet Ezekiel contemplating his vision of God described in the Book of Ezekiel, chapter 1.

The painting portrays Ezekiel sitting or kneeling on the ground, gazing upwards with an expression of awe and wonder. Above him, God is shown surrounded by cherubim, a common motif in Renaissance depictions of divine figures. The composition is notable for its dynamic energy and use of light and shadow to create a sense of drama and the sublime. God is portrayed as an older man with flowing robes and a powerful, commanding presence. The cherubim are rendered as small, winged figures surrounding God, adding to the painting's otherworldly atmosphere.

Ezekiel's Vision is considered one of Raphael's later works, and its creation likely involved the assistance of his workshop, particularly Giulio Romano. The painting is smaller in scale than many of Raphael's other well-known frescoes and panel paintings. It is currently held in the Palazzo Pitti in Florence, Italy.

The artwork reflects the Renaissance interest in biblical narratives and the interpretation of religious texts. It also exemplifies Raphael's mastery of composition, anatomy, and the use of color to convey emotion and spiritual experience. The painting’s dramatic and emotionally charged depiction of Ezekiel's encounter with the divine has contributed to its enduring appeal and its status as a significant work within Raphael's oeuvre.