This is a tour de force which imaginatively and convincingly fills the gaps in our knowledge of Caravaggio's life and that of his model, student and lover, Francesco Boneri. It is a rollicking story which vividly brings to life the violent contrasts of their time: the opulence and squalor, piety and corruption, sophistication and degradation of 16th and early 17th century Italy. Against this backdrop West's expertise in art and art history gives fascinating insights into the genesis and genius of the paintings.

Very Reverend Jeffrey John, former Dean of St Alban's Cathedral.

Cover painting: Sacrifice of Isaac c1603

This is a tour de force which imaginatively and convincingly fills the gaps in our knowledge of Caravaggio's life and that of his model, student and lover, Francesco Boneri. It is a rollicking story which vividly brings to life the violent contrasts of their time: the opulence and squalor, piety and corruption, sophistication and degradation of 16th and early 17th century Italy. Against this backdrop West's expertise in art and art history gives fascinating insights into the genesis and genius of the paintings.

Very Reverend Jeffrey John, former Dean of St Alban's Cathedral.

Cover painting: Sacrifice of Isaac c1603

This is a tour de force which imaginatively and convincingly fills the gaps in our knowledge of Caravaggio's life and that of his model, student and lover, Francesco Boneri. It is a rollicking story which vividly brings to life the violent contrasts of their time: the opulence and squalor, piety and corruption, sophistication and degradation of 16th and early 17th century Italy. Against this backdrop West's expertise in art and art history gives fascinating insights into the genesis and genius of the paintings.

Very Reverend Jeffrey John, former Dean of St Alban's Cathedral.

Cover painting: Sacrifice of Isaac c1603