Cheney (art history and cultural studies, U. of Massachusetts Lowell) examines these unique structures, amongst the few designed, built and decorated by an artist for his own use. Focusing on the houses of Vasari in Arezzo and Florence, Cheney traces the stylistic cycles that exposed sixteenth century perceptions of aesthetics, artistry, culture and historical sensibility. She describes the use of mythical rather than religious images and iconography and the relationship Vasari had with his homes over time. She includes 60 pages of photographs and other illustrations of details of the homes. Annotation ©2006 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)