Cellini

Many are familiar with Benvenuto Cellini, sculptor, goldsmith and rakehell of the Italian High Renaissance, through his semi-romanticized autobiography. There we meet a seducer of men and women, a murderer, a man of intense loves and loathings who was not above petty intrigue and vindictiveness. Art historian Pope-Hennessy concentrates on Cellini the artist; his narrative, not really a rounded biography, is for students of the fine arts. Within this book's enormous coffee-table format are some of the best photographs ever taken of Cellini's busts, bronzes, medals, coins, nudes and marble crucifix. Finn's intimate photographs catch every sinew and contour of Cellini's forms, revealing the inner meaning that shines through their polished exteriors. A feast for the senses, this luxurious album also reproduces works by Cellini's rivals and contemporaries. One-third of the 250 plates are in color. Unfortunately, the dry text detracts from the book's appeal. January 10