Cellini’s early years are spent training as a musician. Renaissance music was all about harmony, but Cellini was ruled by other passions. Show more

Jerry Brotton takes a fresh look at the Italian Renaissance through Benvenuto Cellini, one of its most controversial artists. Also, a painting is found, which might be by Cellini. Show more

Having built a career as a goldsmith, Cellini turns soldier during one of the Renaissance’s most terrible moments: the Sack of Rome in 1527. Show more

On his return to Florence, Cellini experiences the horrors of the plague, a recurrent feature of the Renaissance. Show more

Cellini is imprisoned for over a year in Rome, enduring various attempts on his life. On his release, he kills again and heads for France. Show more

Back in Florence, Cellini works for Cosimo de’ Medici. He creates his greatest work, a huge bronze statue of Perseus beheading Medusa. Show more

At the height of his success, Cellini’s violence and sexual misconduct lead him back to jail. In disgrace, he completes another masterpiece, his life-size marble crucifix. Show more

Cellini’s violent life leaves behind a controversial legacy. And there is a final twist - the recent appearance of a painting alleged to be his self-portrait. Is it genuine? Show more

Cellini roams between the great Italian courts, making art and causing trouble. He murders his brother’s killer before being falsely imprisoned for stealing the pope’s jewels. Show more

Cellini arrives in Fontainebleau to work for Francis I. He makes his first masterpiece, a golden salt cellar. But his repeated sexual indiscretions soon catch up with him. Show more