For the first time in English: A foundational book for understanding all the artistic techniques and concepts repeatedly cited in Vasari's 'Lives of the Most Excellent Artists.' Vasari describes all the artistic techniques of the Renaissance, from bronze casting to stained glass and damasking, from types of stone to drawing techniques. General questions are also addressed, providing astonishing insights into artistic concepts (and their implementation): What is a cartoon and what is its purpose? What types of column orders exist? What should the perfect work of art look like - in painting, sculpture, and architecture?.