St. George Fighting the Dragon, Raphael, Raffaello Mouse Pad

St. George Fighting the Dragon (1503-1505) by Raphael Sanzio or Raffaello (1483-1520) is a vintage Renaissance Era fine art religious portrait painting. The patron saint of England slaying the dragon. According to legend, this monster infested a marsh outside the walls of a city and, with his fiery breath, could poison all who came near. In order to placate the dragon, the city furnished him with a few sheep every day. But when the supply of sheep was exhausted, the sons and daughters of the citizens became the victims. The lot fell one day on the princess, and the King reluctantly sent her forth to the dragon. Saint George happened to be riding by and, seeing the maiden in tears, commended himself to God and transfixed the dragon with his spear. St George's lance has been broken in the struggle, but the proud knight is about to vanquish the dragon with the sword, and so free the princess, who is fleeing in the background on the right.