Raffaello, visione di ezechiele, 1518 ca., 01

A powerful, bearded figure representing the divine is supported by the wings of four symbolic creatures amidst a radiant golden light. Below, in a vast and darkened landscape, the tiny figure of the prophet Ezekiel stands in awe of the celestial apparition. Two small angelic figures flank the central deity, who raises his arms in a gesture of power and revelation.

This work depicts the 'Merkabah' or 'Throne-Chariot' vision, a cornerstone of Jewish mysticism that deeply influenced Renaissance Christian Kabbalists like Giovanni Pico della Mirandola. The Tetramorph represents the four corners of the world and the four elements, harmonizing biblical prophecy with the Neoplatonic understanding of a structured, hierarchical cosmos.