Leonardo da Vinci

Leonardo was commissioned by Ludovico Sforza to create a colossal bronze equestrian statue, the Sforza Horse. He spent years on designs and a full-scale clay model, but the bronze was used for cannons, and the statue was never cast. The clay model was destroyed in 1499.

Leonardo designed several flying machines, including an ornithopter with flapping wings inspired by birds. He studied aerodynamics and bird flight, creating detailed sketches. While none were built or flown, his designs demonstrated advanced engineering concepts.

Leonardo da Vinci conducted detailed anatomical dissections of human corpses, producing over 200 drawings of muscles, bones, and organs. His studies of the heart, brain, and fetus were centuries ahead of their time, though not published during his lifetime.

Leonardo painted The Last Supper on the wall of the refectory of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan. The mural depicts the moment Jesus announces his betrayal. Its innovative composition and emotional depth made it a seminal work of Renaissance art.

Leonardo da Vinci began painting the Mona Lisa, a portrait of Lisa Gherardini. He used sfumato technique to create a subtle, enigmatic smile. The painting became the most famous artwork in the world, renowned for its composition and technical mastery.