Vasari's Lives of the Artists: Giotto, Masaccio, Fra Filippo Lippi, Botticelli, Leonardo, Raphael, Michelangelo, Titian (Dover Fine Art, History of Art)

It's the most common required book on university Art History lists, and every passing student will have read it. It is an important source for what the artist was thinking and what his reputation was in his own time. Most of Art History is modern interpretation simply because there aren't many written records. They don't all write endlessly about themselves like many people do these days. In the case of Renaissance Italy they had Vasari to do it for them. He isn't always truthful or right about what he says (since many of the early artists were already dead and many others were in places he couldn't get to for interviews, a good deal of his biographies were based on rumors, stories and what would nowadays be called hearsay accounts) but he's the best we've got, and he's worth reading. Even the non-art historian, a person who likes art and wonders what it was like in the renaissance for artists, will find this interesting and informative. It's actually more interesting (as is everything I find) when you're not being forced to read it, so if you're in between classes, haven't started art history classes yet or are just an independant student of art in general, pick this up, it's reasonably priced, and it's worth having on your shelf.

Definitive work about the lives of renaissance artists

The original art historian, Vasari actually knew and was friend to some of these artists. He goes into first hand details of their personal lives and description of works, some that have ceased to exist or were never completed.

I don't mind a well-worn book, but only if I am the one to wear it in. While I commend this vendor's price and quick delivery, I would have preferred to spend a little more and get a book mailed in a padded envelope so it doesn't arrive beat up. Oh well, live and learn.

Its the exact book I needed for my art history class. Shipped on time and is in excellent condition! Can't beat paying less than $20 for it!

this is an invaluable document, written with care and very near to the times these artists lived and worked. very informative.

love it

Very satisfied with my purchase. The book arrived even faster than expected. I was able to begin my studies in an unhurried manner.

Justo lo que yo esperaba, un libro muy interesante de los artistas italianos del Renacimiento

good condition and most pleased.

Best read ever. I just Keep on reading this one .

Brilliant book

I was really looking forward to this little book, but have actually found it very dry and hard going.