Die Verschwörung der schwarzen Teufel im Kolosseum zu Rom

The famous Renaissance sculptor and engraver wrote his autobiography in two parts between 1558 and 1566. It was first printed in 1728.
Cellini (1500-1571) led an adventurous life. At the age of fifteen he became a goldsmith against the will of his father, who wanted him to be a musician and composer. Rich Florentines, noblemen from Tuscany and also the church took an interest in the young goldsmith and gave him important commissions. Cellini became one of the most respected sculptors of his time, famous beyond the borders of Italy.

The Vita describes Cellini's works and those who commissioned them, and also his turbulent life and the "dark side" to this strong-willed and pugnacious artist.


  
 
The book was widely read in Italy after it was first published. At the end of the eighteenth century it was rediscovered and translated into other languages.
Prechtl depicts Cellini's life in 32 pictures. As there is only one existing authentic portrait of Cellini, Prechtl invented his own Benvenuto.