Florence, Italy
1493
The sun has set and the glow of lamps meets my eyes in the room.
The young artist collects his simple belongings as the older man stands from the sofa and stretches.
Signore Medici, that is all the work I need to do now. I will return to my workshop and sculpt the figure as we have agreed upon.
Excellent. I look forward to seeing the results. I trust that you will accept payment after completion?
The artist hesitates. I see on his face a struggle between pride and honesty.
The pride wins.
Of course.
I have witnessed such situations before, of course. The artist prepares to leave, and in glancing around, meets my gaze again.
Perhaps he sees there a warning, perhaps he simply sees his own situation in a clearer light.
However, signore Medici, I will require a deposit for the work.
