First edition of a dialogue on painting between Pietro Aretino and John Francis Fabrini, written by Lodovico Dolce (1568). The discussion concentrates on the particular merits of works of art and artists, the question whether Venetian or Tuscan art is "better". It is mostly based on letters by Aretino. Vasaris Vite names Michelangelo as the best painter in Italy, and he ignored Tizian in the first edition of his work. Dolce however compared Raphael, Michelangelo and Tizian, and he declares Tizian the best painter. This left Vasari with no choice, and he had to include Tizian in the second edition, but he still took the side of Michelangelo. Dolce also discusses the artistic depiction of antique and contemporary battles. He stresses the importance of attention for details, such as giving the soldiers clothing from the time of the battle. He influenced many artists, but most only partly followed his proposals, many continuing to paint the soldiers of biblical and classical battles in what were then modern uniforms.
Good copy. Later flyleaves with library label and bookplate of Cesare Malfatti, old owner's inscription; library stamp on title-page, inscription of first owner in ink on verso title; slight water stains. Adams D730.