Ascanio is a historical novel, set in Paris in the summer and fall of 1540, based on several episodes from the autobiography of the great Florentine sculptor and goldsmith, Benvenuto Cellini (1498-1562). Cellini's principal patron in Rome, Pope Clement, died, and Cellini had a falling out with his successor, Paul III. Imprisoned by the Pope, Cellini escaped, was recaptured Ascanio is a historical novel, set in Paris in the summer and fall of 1540, based on several episodes from the autobiography of the great Florentine sculptor and goldsmith, Benvenuto Cellini (1498-1562). Cellini's principal patron in Rome, Pope Clement, died, and Cellini had a falling out with his successor, Paul III. Imprisoned by the Pope, Cellini escaped, was recaptured, and was eventually released and traveled to France, along with his two assistants, Ascanio and Pagolo, to serve King Francois I. Includes unique illustrations!