In this major study, Cassidy (U. of St. Andrews, Scotland, he's the former director of Princeton's Index of Christian Art) discusses Italian political sculpture in terms of the specific local context in which it was created, revealing in the process the upheaval that was occurring in Italy's cities at this time, when the ruling elite was changing radically as the merchant class gained power. Discussing the local political and historical circumstances and the meaning they give to a wealth of sculptural examples throughout Italy, Cassidy also shows how stylistic norms were shifting, with sculptors drawing on the styles of France. Published in an oversized format (9x11.25") and beautifully illustrated with b&w plates, this study is a significant addition to the art historical literature of the period. Distributed in North America by The David Brown Book Co. Annotation ©2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)