Wealth and the demand for art in Italy, 1300-1600 Book

A decent short survey of wealthy Italian art consumption. Overall, the book does execute its objective: to demonstrate how Italian patricians had unique spending habits when it came to art. Goldthwaite examines the cultural, political and social dimensions structuring the demand in great detail. Where the work falls short is in its evenness. Most of the work is dedicated to evaluating the demand shaping factors rather than demonstrating their effects by referring to purchases. As a result, one is not wholly convinced by the end of the work. Also, there is a distinct norther Italian sample bias. Italy in this context is a rather limited geographic space, further weakening the argument. Still a worthwhile read despite the minor flaws in execution.