1452 — 1519
Renaissance polymath who embodied the fusion of art, science, and innovation. A visionary whose notebooks contained designs for flying machines, anatomical studies, and masterpieces that continue to inspire humanity five centuries later.
Born on April 15 in the hilltop town of Vinci, Republic of Florence. The illegitimate son of a successful notary and a local woman, marking the beginning of an extraordinary life.
At age 14, became apprentice to the renowned artist Andrea del Verrocchio in Florence, learning painting, sculpture, metalwork, and mechanical arts in one of the city's most prestigious workshops.
Moved to Milan under the patronage of Ludovico Sforza, where he served as court artist, engineer, and inventor, creating military designs, architectural plans, and court entertainments.
Began work on his most famous portrait, revolutionizing the art of painting with innovative techniques and psychological depth that continue to captivate viewers worldwide.
Died on May 2 at Château du Clos Lucé in Amboise, France, under the patronage of King Francis I, leaving behind thousands of pages of notes and drawings that revealed his genius to the world.
An early conceptual design for vertical flight, often considered a precursor to the modern helicopter.
A revolutionary armored vehicle design featuring 360-degree firing capabilities and protective plating.
A pyramidal design for a device that would allow a person to safely descend from great heights.
An early example of robotics and automation, designed to move and simulate a knight in armor.
Advanced designs for water pumps, hydraulic jacks, and other fluid-powered machinery.
An innovative bridge design featuring multiple levels for different types of traffic and emergency escape routes.
Perhaps the most famous painting in the world, known for the subject's enigmatic smile and Leonardo's innovative sfumato technique.
A masterpiece of composition and perspective, depicting the dramatic moment when Jesus announces that one of his Apostles would betray him.
A study of the proportions of the human body, combining art and science in a way that epitomizes Renaissance humanism.
A portrait of Cecilia Gallerani, featuring masterful attention to detail and psychological insight that was revolutionary for its time.
His approach of observation, hypothesis, and experimentation laid crucial groundwork for modern scientific methodology and empirical research practices.
Demonstrated how art and science could complement each other, inspiring today's approach to creative problem-solving across multiple fields.
His detailed dissections and drawings advanced medical understanding, establishing artistic documentation as a tool for scientific discovery.
Continues to inspire contemporary artists, engineers, and inventors worldwide, representing the ideal of lifelong learning and boundless curiosity.