The Art of Renaissance, 1400-1600

This book is very well researched and written in a manner all lovers of Roman renaissance history, art and architecture will find rewarding. The author finds within the art and architecture of Rome new details and subtleties which often seem lost in the grand depictions of this highly researshed subject. The book contains excellent reproductions of the art - especially the Sistine Chaple and the Alter pieces, a very useful map and a chronological table toward the end which is valuable for quick reference. My only negetive criticism of this fine book would be concerning the history of the earlier buildings which existed before the grand palazzos were erected. For example, I have a sub-passion for the history of the Piazza del Campidoglio (Capitoline). I know the present Palazzo del Senatore was formerly a palace or large building constructed over the Tabularium built by Lucius Cornelius Sulla. I was looking for more information explaining Michelangelo's planning and vision (which he accomplished) for this important site. This very well may have been outside the author's parameter but I am looking for a detailed discussion of the layers of history around the buildings of the Capitol. Nonetheless, I loved this book and will often refer to it and bring it with me on my next trip to the Eternal City.