Trull, William: Raphael vindicated: by a comparison between the original tapestries (now in London) of Leo X. and the cartoons at Hampton Court, as repaired by Cooke : with brief historical and artistical remarks upon the whole series (London: Thomas Hookham, 1840)

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THE BEAUTIFUL GATE OF THE TEMPLE.
Tapestry dimensions, 13 ft. deep.
18 ft. 4 in. wide.
Cartoon, sight . . 17 ft. 6 in. wide.
This Cartoon, when compared with the Tapestry, is ex-
tremely unworthy; no less from extensive repairs in the
most important parts, than from the wear and tear, and
neglect, of centuries. At the time Raphael contemplated
the present subject, the gorgeous effect to be produced in
Tapestry, by the architectural grandeur he intended to
throw over it, was a leading object; and though he has
been accused of departing from historical truth, yet it may
be well excused by the extraordinary beauty and splendour
of his Beautiful Gate. Nothing that we are acquainted with
can compare with the effect produced by those ornamental
spiral columns, with raised figures in relief, for the portico,
or, as it is called, Solomon’s Porch, of the Temple at Jeru-
salem. It may be here observed, that as the intention
throughout the Cartoons, had Tapestry for its chief object,
any criticism on the designs, ought constantly to keep that
circumstance in view.
In the Cartoon these fine columns will be found in ruins,
yet in this state, they are far preferable to the patches, and
attempts of restorers; fortunately, however, some of Ra-
phael’s great beauties shine forth in the most brilliant man- -
ner. Who can mistake the master in that finest of figures,
St. Peter ? the manner speaks the deed, and the power from
on high, by which it is accomplished: this is indeed Raphael;
and no less, that exquisitely beautiful female with a basket
on her head, leading a charming boy, possessing the peculiar
light and buoyant reality of the master; which may be here
D