Rafael Santi lived only thirty-seven years, but during his short life he managed to achieve incredible heights and make a dizzying career as an artist. A talented craftsman, a businessman, a charming leader - he is rightfully considered one of the symbols of Italian art. His life was very busy: he managed to combine several large projects, work in the workshop and social life. Raphael's works are full of amazing and unexpected details that can tell a lot about both the artist's biography and his environment. Why does Plato in The School of Athens look so similar to Leonardo da Vinci? Who is depicted in one of the most mysterious paintings of the Renaissance, Fornarine? In which works of Raphael is the eternal rivalry with Michelangelo clearly visible? Based on letters, diaries, testimonies of contemporaries and, of course, on the analysis of the paintings of the great artist, the author will reveal the secrets of his life and work and give the keys to understanding his painting.