Raphael and Michelangelo are both known as great Renaissance artists. Both men were born in Italy. Michelangelo was born on March 6, 1475, while Raphael is younger, being born on April 6, 1483. Between the two, Michelangelo was better known as a sculptor while Raphael was known as a painter. Michelangelo was fascinated with sculptures when he was young since he used to live with a stonecutter and his family owned a marble quarry. Raphael was born in a family with a painter of a father. In terms of art, the specialities between the two vary. Michelangelo’s sculptures make use of marble and plaster. His primary sculptural works are of the naked human body. One of his most famous sculptural works is the David. His experiences are paintings can be seen on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. His painting medium is the fresco, wherein lime plasters are involved. The physique of the human bodies in his works is herculean, or very muscular. On the other hand, Raphael’s primary medium is oil paint. His subjects for his works were also of the human body and human grandeur. His works were known for its clarity, vibrancy. One of his most famous paintings is the Madonna. A difference between the two is that Michelangelo kept his works hidden until it was finished while Raphael has his works viewable by the general public. This happened when both were commissioned to work in the Vatican. Michelangelo would rather be in isolation in working while Raphael was more sociable. Despite being two of the biggest names in Renaissance history, the two were deemed to be rivals.
