Portrait of a Young Woman

The "Portrait of a Young Woman" also known as "La Muta" is an exquisite painting by the acclaimed Italian Renaissance artist Raphael, created around 1507-1508. This masterpiece is housed at the Galleria Nazionale delle Marche in Urbino, Italy. The portrait features an unidentified noblewoman set against a dark background, with evident influences from Leonardo da Vinci. Initially, the painting was not attributed to Raphael, but it is now celebrated as one of his finest works in portraiture.

Raphael's distinctive style is evident in the meticulous detail and vibrant colors of the woman's clothing. He employs large sweeps of color that blend seamlessly into lighter tones, all set against a dark backdrop. This technique, along with the precise depiction of the garments' details, is a hallmark of Raphael's artistry. Despite the intricate details, the overall composition remains harmonious, thanks to a cohesive and limited color palette.

Art historian Nicoletta Baldini has noted the exceptional quality of the hands in the portrait, describing them as "vibratile" distinguishing them from the styles of Michelangelo or Leonardo da Vinci. Interestingly, X-ray analysis of the painting revealed an earlier drawing by Raphael beneath the surface, showing a young female face with soft features that underwent subsequent modifications.