A landscape with figures and the ruins of a column, c.1512 (metalpoint and white bodycolour...

A metalpoint and bodycolour drawing of a landscape containing broken columns, buildings and figures. This drawing, the only known landscape study by Raphael, was adapted for use as the right half of the background in an engraving by Marcantonio Raimondi known as Il Morbetto (see RCIN 852188). The engraving is inscribed 'INV[ENTOR] RAP[HAEL] UR[BINAS]', and depicts a scene from the Aeneid. The Uffizi holds a drawing by Raphael (inv.525-E) of the whole composition which is reversed in relation to the print. Also known as 'View of the Roman forum' Raphael and Raimondi appear to have had a close working relationship, with the former providing the latter with a number of designs to be reproduced as prints - thus widely disseminating Raphael's work and helping to ameliorate his fame.