“For about half of the 16th century, there lived in Ferrara (it then flourished under the scepter of its magnificent dukes, patrons of the arts and poetry) - there lived two young men named Fabius and Mucius. Peers for years, close relatives, they were almost never separated; cordial friendship connected them from early childhood... the same fate sealed this bond. Both belonged to old families; both were rich, independent and single; Both had similar tastes and inclinations. Mucius studied music, Fabius studied painting. All of Ferrara was proud of them as the best decoration of the court, society and city...”