CHAPTER XI

CHAPTER XI 1492

Intellectual and artistic revival in Lombardy--Lodovico and his secretaries--Building of the new University of Pavia--Reforms and extension of the University--The library of the Castello remodelled --Poliziano and Merula--Lodovico founds new schools at Milan-- Equestrian statue of Francesco Sforza--Leonardo's paintings at Milan--Lodovico as a patron of art and learning 125

CHAPTER XII 1492

Beatrice d'Este as a patron of learning and poetry--Vincenzo Calmeta, her secretary--Serafino d'Aquila--Rivalry of Lombard and Tuscan poets--Gaspare Visconti's works--Poetic jousts with Bramante --Niccolo da Correggio and other poets--Dramatic art and music at the court of Milan--Gaffuri and Testagrossa--Lorenzo Gusnasco of Pavia 141

CHAPTER XIII 1492

Visit of Duke Ercole to Milan, and of Isabella d'Este--Election of Pope Alexander VI.--Bribery of the Cardinals--Influence of Ascanio Sforza over the new Pope, and satisfaction of Lodovico--Hunting- parties at Pavia and Vigevano--_Fêtes_ at Milan--Visit of Isabella to Genoa--Lodovico's letters--Piero de Medici--King Ferrante's jealousy of the alliance between Rome and Milan 155