Explore the Figures about the Program, subject, figure identifications and interpretations of this artwork.
The identities of some of the philosophers in the picture, such as Plato and Aristotle, are certain. Beyond that, identifications of Raphael's figures have always been hypothetical. To complicate matters, beginning from Vasari's efforts, some have received multiple identifications, not only as ancients but also as figures contemporary with Raphael. Vasari mentions portraits of the young Federico II Gonzaga, Duke of Mantua, leaning over Bramante with his hands raised near the bottom right, and Raphael himself.
Raphael Federico II Gonzaga, Duke of Mantua Aristotle II right Duke of Mantua Plato Bramante