An Oil On Canvas, Portrait Of Cesare Borgio After Raphael, 19th Century

This portrait depicts Cesare Borgia, an iconic figure of the Italian Renaissance, in Raphael, known here from a 19th-century copy.

Cesare Borgia (1475–1507)

Son of Pope Alexander VI, Cesare Borgia is one of the most fascinating and controversial figures of the Italian Renaissance. Made a cardinal at a very young age, he abandoned his ecclesiastical career to become a military leader and statesman.

His political actions, marked by a desire for domination and great tactical skill, deeply impressed his contemporaries. Niccolò Machiavelli saw him as the model of the ideal Prince, capable of imposing order through intelligence and force.

César Borgia's face immediately draws attention with his intense gaze.
The simplicity of the pose contrasts with the refinement of the costume, particularly the richly decorated sleeve, which reflects the character's social status and power.

This image contributes to the construction of an ideal portrait of the man in power.