Perseus with the Head of Medusa

Cellini was one of the best-known and influential Italian Mannerist artists of the 16th century. He worked in Rome for several popes, in France for Francis I, and in Florence for Cosimo I de'Medici. Among his most famous works are the elaborate gold figural salt made for Francis I (now in Vienna) and the bronze statue of Perseus (in Florence, Loggia dei Lanzi). His famous and colorful autobiography (written ca. 1558, but only published in 1728) is generally considered to be an important work of Italian literature, although not entirely factual. Italian Mannerist artist. Comment on works: Sculptor; Draughtsman; Medalist