After Raffaello Sanzio, called Raphael

After Raffaello Sanzio, called Raphael
Allegory of Theology
Oil on canvas
26 3/4 x 26 1/2 inches (68 x 67.3 cm)
Unframed
The original of this composition is a compartment of the ceiling fresco of the Stanza della Segnatura in the Vatican Palace. Theology is shown wearing a white veil, a green cloak, and a red gown, the colors of the Theological Virtues of Faith, Hope and Charity. She holds a book of scripture in her left hand and with her right points downward toward the fresco of the Disputa (theological discussion) on the wall below. The winged putti that accompany her carry placards inscribed Divinar[um] Rer[um] Notitia ("Knowledge of Divine Things").

C