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Lecture: "Raphael/Not Raphael"

Art critic Lin Tan discusses paintings from the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s recent exhibition, "Raphael: Sublime Poetry," focusing on works that appear not to be entirely by Raphael’s own hand.

How can we tell if a masterpiece was truly painted by the artist whose name it bears? This lecture takes a closer look at selected works from the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s recent exhibition "Raphael: Sublime Poetry," exploring intriguing questions about who may actually have painted them.

Beginning with an “eye test,” we’ll look for clues in artistic style, technique, models, and pigments, comparing Raphael’s work with that of his followers. We’ll also consider evidence revealed through X-rays and the provenance of the paintings as we investigate the fascinating and sometimes complex process of determining artistic attribution.

Registration is requested for planning purposes, but not required.

About the Speaker: Dr. Lin Tan is a Professor of Mathematics at West Chester University of Pennsylvania, as well as an accomplished photographer and art critic. Bringing a unique perspective that bridges analytical thinking and visual literacy, Dr. Tan has spent several decades exploring art history, theory, and criticism. He is a prolific community educator who has delivered over one hundred lectures and seminars on art and photography, primarily through the Time-Light Art Association and the Huaxia Chinese School at Great Valley.

Co-sponsored by the library and Princeton Active Circle. 

Community Room Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible
• Assistive listening system compatible with personal T-coil-enabled devices (compatible headphones also available for use during programs)
• English-language subtitles for films (when available)
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