A Season of Giants: Michelangelo, Leonardo, Raphael, 1492-1508

by Vincenzo Labella

Looks at three of the greatest artists in history, the competition among them, and their best works

Genres: History

Hardcover

First published March 9, 1993

Reviews

[Mrs. Hassig]

I worship at the feet of Michaelangelo and Lorenzo de Medici so this book was a must. I have had it in my library for 25 years and just finished the book "Poet Prince," and felt it was the perfect time to go back and read about the season of giants including "The David." Even though Labella has no choice but to mention all of the names of the Giants contemporaries, it still makes for an excellent background as to why these men were so amazing. I like to say the Michaelangelo was "Not of this World." Pope Francis of modern times is certainly a refreshing change to the popes of the Renaissance. This will definitely open you eyes to the papacy. Definitely worth the read!

[Cat. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Read every word of this, even though it's very coffee-table arty. Raphael gets pretty short shrift. This really about Florence more than the artists themselves. As Michelangelo was more closely tied to Florence than the other two, he gets more coverage, at least his early career does. His Sistine work is covered in only one chapter! I did learn a lot more about who Savonarola was & why he turned up where & when he did. Lots of interesting detail, and of course good photos.