Artemisia

"Banti's often moving novel presents a psychological evocation of the woman artist. . . . We must be grateful to [the author] and her translator for this imaginative presentation of an extraordinary individual."-New York Times. "This novel should change the way we think about historical fiction and its possibilities. . . . A thickly textured and moving portrait."-Boston Review. "That Banti was able to spin this lyrical novel from a few biographical details is as much a testament to her skill as it is to the woman who inspired her."-New Directions for Women. "This sensitive work of psychological portraiture, fluently translated by Caracciolo, is an intricate, self-reflective work of art."-Publishers Weekly. "Artemisia's story is compelling. The recreation of her world is rich in the visual and tactual details of the time, as well as emotional perceptions that transcend time. The vital bond between writer and subject envelops the reader completely."-Booklist. Artemisia Gentileschi, born in 1598, the daughter of an esteemed painter, taught art in Naples and painted the great women of Roman and biblical history. She could neither read nor write, was reviled as a rape victim in a public trial, rejected by her father, and later abandoned by her husband. Nevertheless, she was one of the first women in modern times to uphold through her work and deeds the right of women to pursue careers compatible with their talents and on an equal footing with men. Anna Banti's novel was first published to critical acclaim in Italy in 1947 (Banti was the pseudonym of Lucia Lopresti, 1895-1978). The translator, Shirley D'Ardia Caracciolo, whose afterword discusses the historical background and artistry ofArtemisia, lives in Ireland.