Ascanius

Ascanius is one of the most fascinating historical novels by Alexandre Dumas. The idea for this work came to the writer after he received the memoirs of Benvenuto Cellini, the greatest Italian sculptor, jeweler, and painter of the Renaissance era.
A young man named Ascanius is in love with the charming girl Colombine, the daughter of a wealthy nobleman. But, unfortunately, the king's favorite, the Duchess d'Étampes, is wildly in love with him, and for her love, she is ready to do anything, even betray him. The renowned artist and talented master Cellini comes to the aid of the young lovers. He is willing to sacrifice his life for the happiness of his student and the beautiful Colombine. His noble heart, extraordinary talent, and steady hand stand against the treachery and cunning of influential intriguers.
The unique illustrations by Anatoly Zinovievich Itkin seamlessly blend with the plot of this remarkable novel and brilliantly convey the atmosphere of events taking place in France during the reign of Francis I.