* Early Exposure to Art: Born into a family of artists in Urbino, Italy, Raphael was exposed to art from a very young age. His father, Giovanni Santi, was a painter, and he likely assisted in his father's workshop. This early exposure to the artistic process fostered his passion and talent.
* Artistic Apprenticeship: At the age of 11, Raphael was apprenticed to the workshop of Pietro Perugino, a prominent Umbrian painter. This was a crucial step in his development, allowing him to learn technical skills and artistic principles from a master.
* Natural Talent: Raphael was demonstrably gifted. His early works, even during his apprenticeship, displayed an exceptional ability to capture beauty, grace, and emotional depth. His talent was undeniable and undoubtedly propelled him further in his artistic pursuits.
* Desire for Recognition and Success: Living in a flourishing Renaissance era, where artists enjoyed great social status and prestige, Raphael likely aspired to achieve success and recognition for his talent. This ambition, combined with his passion for art, motivated him to pursue his artistic career.
* The Spirit of the Renaissance: The Renaissance was a period of immense intellectual and artistic exploration. This spirit of curiosity, innovation, and desire to express oneself fueled Raphael's desire to become a painter and contribute to the vibrant artistic scene of the time.
It's important to remember that these are just theories based on what we know about Raphael's life and the context of the Renaissance. However, the combination of his early exposure, talent, and desire for success likely led him to embrace painting as his life's work.