The extraordinary artistic revolution known as the Renaissance began in 15th-century Italy, from where it spread throughout the whole of Europe. This one-volume overview recounts its compelling story against the dramatic politics of the time.
Lavishly illustrated with colour reproductions, it presents the key paintings, sculptures and buildings, and the ideas behind them.
It also profiles their creators such as Leonardo, Michelangelo, Raphael and Botticelli, and their patrons, including the powerful and sinister Medici family.