The Tazza Farnese is one of the most admired objects from classical antiquity. A libation bowl carved from banded agate; it features Medusas head on its outside and; inside; an assembly of Egyptian gods. For more than two millennia; these radiant figures have mesmerized emperors and artists; popes and thieves; merchants and museum goers.In this; the first book-length account of this renowned masterpiece; Marina Belozerskaya traces its fascinating journey through history. That it has survived at all is a miracle. The Tazzas origins date back to Ptolemaic Egypt where it likely enhanced the power and prestige of Cleopatra. After her defeat by Emperor Augustus; the bowl began an amazing itinerary along many flashpoints in world history. It likely traveled from Rome to Constantinople. After that citys sack by crusaders in 1204; it returned west to inspire the classical revival at the court of Holy Roman Emperor Frederick II at Palermo. The Tazza next graced Tamerlanes court at Samarqand; before becoming an obsession of Renaissance popes and princes. It witnessed the rediscovery of Pompeii and Herculaneum; the turbulent aftermath of the French Revolution; and the birth of the modern Italian state. Throughout its journey; the Tazza aroused the lust of Greek; Roman; Byzantine; and Mongol rulers; consoled a heart-broken duchess; inspired artists including Botticelli and Raphael; tempted spies and thieves; and drew the ire of a deranged museum guard who nearly destroyed it. More than a biography of the worlds most cherished bowl; Medusas Gaze is a vivid and delightful voyage through history.
#959534 in eBooks 2009-05-01 2009-05-01File Name: B008X0TTM4
Review
0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Excellent Resource for Aspiring Christian SongwritersBy John Chisum (@revchiz)As a long-time Christian music industry professional (and now a songwriting coach). Rob Sterlings book is simply the best all-around primer in the still viable world of Christian songwriting. Rob is extremely accomplished in his own career and has captured the most vital overview Ive found on this subject. I use it extensively in my own coaching courses and in working one-on-one with clients. Way to serve us all so beautifully. Rob! John Chisum. Managing Partner/Nashville Christian Songwriters2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Great overview!By CABAuthor speaks from first hand experience about songwriting but with specific regard to Christian songwriting. Would be an excellent read for anyone doing songwriting but even moreso in this regard. Author gives a great cursory glance of topics to include: lyrics. theory. music form. poetic form all with examples where they have been used. Excellent book and resource!!4 of 4 people found the following review helpful. Encouragement Words from a Songwriter and ComposerBy LisaPersonally. as I read this book I have been encouraged by the humility of the author with all of His expertise. He is also informative in so many ways and he shares ways for anyone to become a songwriter if they begin to invest in the desires of their hearts. I believe that this book can help to inspire and unlock God given potentials in those who desire to write for the glory of God and to help others in their journey with Christ.
