Download Raphael's Stanza della Segnatura, Rome AudioBook Free
Raphael's ground-breaking frescoes in the Stanza della Segnatura at the Vatican are among the best achievements in the history of art. Now art lovers and history buffs can visit this jewel of a room in the Vatican Palace and appreciate these magnificent paintings, guided by the scholarship of a well-known art historian. This Jane's Smart Art Audio Guide to Raphael's Stanza della Segnatura is the exclusive sound adaptation of the favorite book in THE FANTASTIC Fresco Cycles of the Renaissance series, compiled by James Beck, professor of art history at Columbia University and a renowned Renaissance scholar. Jane's engaging narration reveals the historic context, the lofty humanist ideals, and the artistic genius that coincided to produce these epic panoramic paintings. You'll be fascinated to witness Raphael's artistic development as he painted his way around the area, culminating with his masterpiece, The School of Athens, on the east wall. With Jane as your sound tour guide, you can put away your guidebook, become absorbed in the storyline of the creation and meaning of the Stanza, and experience a deep and lasting appreciation of the essence of the impressive place. The 30-minute "Slice of History" background segment is intended for advance listening. It offers the context that will improve your appreciation of what you will see once you reach the Vatican Palace. The on-site tour takes 60 minutes, or 85 minutes if you opt to listen to the 25-minute Addendum. It begins inside the Stanza della Segnatura, with a synopsis of Raphael's thematic and structural presentation. Then, Jane's narration will guide your attention around the area, starting with the unusual illusionistic ceiling treatment, then to the panoramic narrative fresco on each of the four walls. A printable eight-panel PDF file includes 28 thumbnail images keyed to the sound track list, to help keep you oriented.
