of the painting also contributes to this overall unsuccessful attempt by Bartolommeo. The painting is still howevere regarded as an inspirational work, both for the viewer as well as Raphael. Raphael utilized Fra Bartolommeo's Last Judgement as one reference to create his Disputa, although comparing the two works shows Raphael's natural talent and skill for composing.Fra Bartolommeo's handling of people seems to come together successfully in the Marriage of St. Catherine shown in figure 2, which was painted in 1512. Fra Bartolommeo chooses the neutral tones and heavy architecture to enclose the scene.10 Contrasting shapes of light and dark figures and cramped juxtaposing open spaces creates a dynamic, yet almost orderly composition. Bartolommeo's inclusion of a small flight of steps serves as a forerunner to Raphael's School of Athens and altar pieces in the future which contain many figures in a small space. Bartolommeo's subtle evoking of emotion is evident in the gestures of the Madonna and baby Jesus as well as the contraposto of the figure in the lower right hand corner.Also in 1512 Fra Bartolommeo painted an impressive Madonna and Child(refer to figure 3) which is in the Besancon Cathedral. Bartolommeo created a new kind of spiritualism and idealism by straying away at least for the time being his usual dark backgrounds and opening a door behind the beautifully floating Madonna, creating depth and perspective. Another important aspect within this work is the lighting technique utilized, which lights brightly the portions of the figures' bodies which need to be seen the most, contrasting against a relatively dark surrounding. Perhaps the most impressive handling of a single figure in this painting is the St. Sebastian on the right which flows gracefully in his body language, somewhat resembling St. Bernard in a previous work in the vision of St. Bernard from 1506.While visiting Rome in 1517, it is believed that Bartolo...
