Time To Rest

The exquisite Sistine Madonna by Raphael. You can view it at Olga's gallery.

Pico della Mirandola said of Raphael (1483-1520), who lived to be only 37:

"When he died, the heavens wanted to give one of the signs they gave when Jesus Christ expired... Here, people are talking about nothing but the death of this exceptional man, who has completed his first life at the young age of 37. His second life - that of his fame, which is subject neither to time nor death - will endure for all eternity..."

Here is a non-vocal carol, for a change. God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, with tasteful images, accompanied by Simeon Wood's haunting flute.