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     He welcomed us warmly in Italian and invited us to tour his four properties on the nearby hillside and to choose one for ourselves. As we walked to them, we first went through his sculpture garden, which is the size of a soccer field. Then we passed by the swimming pool, which is actually a Roman bath housed in a small temple of Rolando's own design.

     As we got to know him, we learned that he is very well known in Tuscany.  He has produced sculptures that can be seen prominently in city squares, decorating fountains, and most importantly -- at the offices of the Carabineri, Italy's police force.

     It was refreshing to hear his interpretation of each piece as we came to it. He describes his work as a kind of 'alchemy' with nature that uses symbols to tell his message. He spoke with great respect about how much he has learned from the Etruscans. He told the stories of some of his pieces and they came alive for us. We wished that we could learn them all. Some told creation myths, others seemed whimsical and erotic.

     "This one? It's the story of life," he explained. "Her life begins here, on the left side, and passes through every stage as she grows older. Finally, at the end, there is death and it all begins again. The figure above holds a falcon, the Egyptian symbol of wisdom, and watches it all as it happens…"

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