Publisher's Synopsis
The Autobiography of Benvenuto Cellini is a classic memoir written by the Italian artist and goldsmith, Benvenuto Cellini, in the 16th century. This book is a first-hand account of Cellini's life and work, as well as his interactions with some of the most prominent figures of the Renaissance period, including Michelangelo, Pope Clement VII, and King Francis I of France.In this book, Cellini describes his childhood and early life, his apprenticeship as a goldsmith, and his travels throughout Italy and France. He also details his experiences as a soldier, his imprisonment and subsequent escape, and his work as a sculptor and artist.Throughout the book, Cellini's personality shines through, as he is both boastful and self-deprecating, proud of his accomplishments but also aware of his flaws. His writing is lively and engaging, and provides a unique insight into the life and times of a Renaissance artist.This edition of The Autobiography of Benvenuto Cellini is edited by John Addington Symonds, a prominent Victorian writer and critic. Symonds provides a detailed introduction and notes to help readers understand the historical context of Cellini's life and work.The gentlewoman, also slightly blushing, said: You know well that I want you to serve me; and reaching me the lily, told me to take it away; and gave me besides twenty golden crowns which she had in her bag, and added: Set me the jewel after the fashion you have sketched, and keep for me the old gold in which it is now set. On this the Roman lady observed: If I were in that young mans body, I should go off without asking leave. Madonna Porzia replied that virtues rarely are at home with vices, and that if I did such a thing, I should strongly belie my good looks of an honest man.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.