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What was the life of the universal genius Leonardo da Vinci? An explanation of his characteristics and tips for appreciation are also included.
Leonardo da Vinci, acclaimed as a universal genius, is a name that even those uninterested in art would have heard. Da Vinci's contributions to the art world are immense, and he is renowned as one of the three great masters of the Renaissance alongside Michelangelo and Raphael.
However, did you know that there are very few surviving paintings by Leonardo da Vinci? This article explores Da Vinci's life, works, characteristics, and tips for appreciation.
〇 The Enigmatic "Universal Genius"
Leonardo da Vinci showcased his talents in various scientific fields, including astronomy and physics, beyond the realm of art. Despite his mysterious and enigmatic impression, his research and observations were precise and rational, earning him a reputation as the most versatile figure in history. In the art world, he left masterpieces such as "Mona Lisa" and "The Last Supper," making him a central figure in High Renaissance realism and classicism.
Da Vinci began his artistic career at the age of 14 under Verrocchio (c. 1435-1488) in Florence, and it is said that he engaged in artistic activities in Florence and Milan. After leaving several works, Leonardo da Vinci lived in Rome from 1513 to 1516.
However, unlike Michelangelo and Raphael, who were active in decorating the Vatican Palace during the same period, Da Vinci did not leave many works in Rome. From 1516, he moved to France at the invitation of Francis I and lived near the king's castle until his death in 1519.
〇 Are There Actually Very Few Surviving Works?
Although Da Vinci left great achievements as an artist, there are actually very few surviving works, said to be only about 15. Even among these few works, some are now suspected of not being created by Da Vinci himself. The famous Da Vinci self-portrait is one of them.
Leonardo da Vinci was also known to destroy unsuccessful works immediately. As an artist, Da Vinci always maintained a scientific exploratory mindset, and he also attempted new technologies and experienced failures.
〇Sketches and Anatomy
Despite the small number of completed paintings, why did Leonardo da Vinci have such a significant influence on the art world? This is because Da Vinci left a large number of sketches.
Since the early Renaissance, especially in the studios of Florence, the importance of sketches has been highly valued as a fundamental skill for artists. Da Vinci left up to 900 different types of sketches, including drafts of paintings, observations of the human body and nature, and various other forms.
Leonardo da Vinci showed great interest in the anatomy of humans and animals, including the structure of muscles and bones. Some of his sketches focused solely on clothing, reflecting his relentless pursuit of realistic expression.
〇Tips for Appreciating Da Vinci's Works
When appreciating Da Vinci's works, pay attention to the detailed observation of the human body and nature. Da Vinci's works not only focus on the characters but also include plants and animals in the background, characterized by meticulous expression.
Da Vinci's depiction of clothing is more natural and warm compared to the severe textures from the Gothic to the early Middle Ages. By showing the body under the clothes, he demonstrates his genius technique, achieved through in-depth research.
Though the number of works is small, the variety of sketches is a major feature. Some of these sketches are housed in the Louvre or the Royal Collection at Windsor Castle. The numerous sketches left by Da Vinci undoubtedly had a significant impact on later artists. When you see sketches in exhibitions, be sure to observe every detail carefully.
Throughout his life, Da Vinci maintained the habit of taking daily notes and recorded his thoughts in unique mirror writing. These notes included his sketches, inventions, architectural designs, mechanical elements, painting concepts, and anatomical drawings.
Da Vinci's reflections on nature and life, as well as his thoughts on art and observation, reveal the richness and depth of his mind. His astonishingly erudite knowledge and talents from five hundred years ago continue to create a spiritual world that amazes us today.
"All knowledge comes from our perception." "Reach into the flowing water, and it is both the last scoop that has passed and the first scoop that is coming: and that is the present."
— Leonardo da Vinci
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