The Pavement Masters of Siena (1369-1562)

This volume invites listeners to walk the marble corridors of Siena’s cathedral, where every stone tells a story of artistic ambition and civic pride. By presenting the pavement itself first, the author lets the intricate patterns and symbolic scenes speak, offering a vivid backdrop against which the hidden hands of the creators emerge. The narrative gently guides you through the visual splendor, from allegorical figures to biblical tableaux, while keeping the focus on the work’s lasting impact.

Beyond the visual tour, the book weaves concise biographies of the largely forgotten masters who designed and executed the inlays, such as Pietro del Minella and Antonio Federighi. Their lives are sketched from archival sources, enriched with thoughtful side notes that illuminate the social and cultural currents of 14th‑ to 16th‑century Siena. Accompanied by detailed illustrations, the account balances scholarly rigor with an accessible, engaging tone that brings these medieval artisans back to life.