Lorenzo de’ Medici and the Art of Magnificence

In the past half century, numerous scholars have downplayed the Renaissance contribution of Lorenzo de’ Medici, the Magnificent. They say that compared to his grandfather Cosimo, Lorenzo was not so magnificent. Historian F. W. Kent seeks to correct this view by examining Lorenzo’s interest in art, aesthetics, collecting, and building. Kent finds that Lorenzo indeed had a cultural and artistic vision, which he applied to many aspects of his private and public lives, witness his interest in public buildings, urban design, and the construction of various Medici palaces. His expertise was well-regarded by gildsmen and artists who often turned to him for advice as much as for patronage. Supplementing the text are new photographs by Ralph Lieberman, commissioned by the author.