"Leonardo da Vinci" (1452 – 1519) Italian, painter, scientist, polymath

Leonardo da Vinci was a master painter, scientist, and inventor who lived during the Italian Renaissance. Born in 1452, he was the illegitimate son of a Florentine notary, Ser Piero, and a peasant woman, Caterina. He was raised by his father and his uncle, Francesco, who was a very successful notary.

Growing up, Leonardo was able to observe and study the works of the great artists of the time, such as Verrocchio and Ghirlandaio. He was a passionate student, and it was here that he developed his profound understanding of the sciences, mathematics, and art. In 1472, Leonardo was accepted as an apprentice in the studio of Andrea del Verrocchio, who was a renowned artist in Florence at the time. Here, he learned the foundations of painting, sculpting, and engineering. He was an eager participant in Verrocchio’s workshop, and soon became one of the most respected students there. In 1478, Leonardo left Verrocchio’s workshop and started to gain recognition for his own works. He painted several frescoes in Florence and was soon commissioned to paint some of the most famous works of his time, such as the Mona Lisa. Leonardo also became known for his scientific studies. He was an avid observer of nature, which he wrote about in his notebooks. He studied the anatomy of the human body and made detailed drawings of the muscles and bones. He also studied engineering and made several inventions, such as a flying machine and a system for diverting water from a river. Throughout his life, Leonardo worked on numerous projects, including painting, sculpting, and engineering. He was a master of all three trades and was able to combine them in order to create some of the most iconic works of art in the world. Leonardo da Vinci died in 1519, leaving behind a legacy that has lasted centuries. His works of art, engineering, and science have inspired generations of people, and his influence can still be seen today. He was a true genius and one of the most influential figures in history.