The Autobiography of Benvenuto Cellini by Cellini, Benvenuto - 1936

New York: Tudor Publishing Company, 1936 New edition. Translated from the Italian by John Addington Symonds. Introduction by Royal Cortissoz. Finely bound by Riviere in blue calf, three concentric gilt squares bordering front and rear boards, with five raised bands to spine, spine with gilt-tooled designs to four compartments, red and brown leather labels, titles in gilt, decorative gilt turn-ins, all edges gilt, and blue marbled endpapers. About fine book with a touch of surface wear to front joint, some very light marks to boards, and lightly nicked corners. Overall, a gorgeous copy with a clean interior. The Life of Benvenuto Cellini is an autobiography of the Italian sculptor and draftsman, written in the sixteenth century, although not published until 1728. This work, detailing the personal life of a well-known artist, has become perhaps the most important autobiography of the Italian Renaissance, giving readers a glimpse into the lives of historical figures like Michelangelo and the Medici family. In his writing, Cellini is unconcerned with maintaining a proper image of himself, and uses humor and exaggerations to embellish his story, even describing violent attacks he supposedly committed and otherworldly experiences he endured. . Hard Cover. Fine.