Treasures of the Medici
Patrons to three centuries of sculptors, carvers, and gold- and silversmiths, the fabled Medici family of Florence amassed an enormous collection of precious objets d'art during their lengthy reign. After the last of the Medici line died in the early 18th century, the collection suffered a series of depredations, thefts, and dispersals. Today its remains are scattered throughout several European museums. On the occasion of the 500th anniversary of the patriach Lorenzo the Magnificent's death, Massinelli and Tuena have compiled this history of Renaissance art patronage and catalog of a once-grand collection whose provenance has been all but destroyed. With large color photos of the intricate objects and thorough profiles of the individuals responsible for their acquisition, this book is both a fascinating catalog of fine artesanal workmanship as well as an intriguing study of the psychology of wealth and materialism in early modern Europe. A good choice for collections needing material on antiquities and Renaissance art.- Douglas F. Smith, Oakland P.L., Cal.Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.