<DIV>Creighton E. Gilbert captures the spirit of the early Renaissance in this remarkable collection of primary texts by and about artists of the fifteenth century. <I>Italian Art </I>makes a valuable contribution not only to the field of art history, but also to social and intellectual history. Almost all aspects of the life of the period--war, fashion, travel, communication--are documented. Revealing significant aspects of the practice of art, the process of patronage, and the way of life and social position of early Renaissance artists, <I>Italian Art </I>brings this fascinating period to life for students and scholars.<BR></DIV>