Author
da Vinci Leonardo
1452-1519
da Vinci Leonardo (1452-1519) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
Subjects
Books by da Vinci Leonardo
The Notebooks of Leonardo Da Vinci — Complete
"The Notebooks of Leonardo Da Vinci — Complete" by Leonardo da Vinci is a comprehensive collection of writings and sketches that delve into various aspects of art and science, first compiled in the late 19th century. The notebooks reveal Leonardo's insights and observations on topics such as painting techniques, perspective, anatomy, and natural phenomena, reflecting the innovative spirit of the Renaissance era. The content spans approximately thirty years of Leonardo's intellectual labor, showcasing his analytical approach to understanding the world. The opening of the work provides an introduction and context for Leonardo's writings, emphasizing the challenges in deciphering his unique handwriting and the chaotic arrangement of his notes. It outlines the author's intent to publish his manuscripts, which cover a wide range of subjects, from theoretical knowledge required for painting to the principles of perspective. Additionally, the preface highlights the confusion present in the manuscripts and the importance of organizing them logically to aid readers. This initial portion sets the stage for an exploration of Leonardo's brilliant mind, inviting readers to engage with the fascinating intersection of art and science he so passionately pursued.
A Treatise on Painting
"A Treatise on Painting" by Leonardo da Vinci is a collection of writings begun in Milan between 1482 and 1499. Gathered from Leonardo's notebooks by his heir Francesco Melzi, this work argues that painting is a science. Through keen observations on expression, character, and natural phenomena, Leonardo examines the principles underlying artistic practice. First published in abridged form in 1651, the treatise was rediscovered and released in its complete modern form in 1817, preserving Leonardo's insights for future generations.
The Notebooks of Leonardo Da Vinci — Volume 2
"The Notebooks of Leonardo Da Vinci — Volume 2" by Leonardo da Vinci is a collection of notes and sketches illustrating Leonardo's insights on various artistic and scientific topics, written during the late 15th and early 16th centuries. This volume particularly focuses on sculpture, highlighting Leonardo's studies and methodologies related to the casting and design of the equestrian statue dedicated to Francesco Sforza, Duke of Milan, along with his thoughts on architectural concepts and interpretations. At the start of this volume, the text delves into Leonardo's notes on sculpture, specifically capturing his meticulous exploration of the techniques and challenges involved in creating the monumental horse statue. The opening portion discusses scattered manuscripts that reveal Leonardo's process, from preparing clay models to considerations of proportion and movement in the art of sculpture. He reflects on the competition for the statue, his attempts to make detailed sketches, and the evolution of design ideas, revealing both the technical and creative challenges he faced. Additionally, he connects these ideas to broader artistic principles, emphasizing the relationship between sculpture and painting, and hinting at the importance of chronicling these methods for future artists.
Thoughts on Art and Life
"Thoughts on Art and Life" by Leonardo da Vinci is a philosophical treatise written during the late 15th to early 16th century. The work explores the intersection of art, science, and the human experience, offering insight into the mind of one of history's greatest polymaths. It delves into the nature of creativity, aesthetics, and the understanding of life through the lens of art, discussing topics such as the importance of studying nature and the relationship between knowledge and wisdom. The opening of the book begins with an introduction that sets the context for da Vinci's thoughts, emphasizing the transition from the Dark Ages to the Renaissance in Italy. It highlights the coexistence of rational and mystical elements within Leonardo's own work, showcasing his journey from a young artist in Florence to becoming a master of various disciplines, including painting, engineering, and philosophy. Early reflections touch upon the thirst for knowledge and a deep desire to comprehend the universe, underlining the importance of observing nature and the intrinsic connections between beauty, truth, and the human soul. The narrative also hints at the philosophical and scientific basis of artistic creation, preparing the reader for a deeper exploration of da Vinci's intricate views on life and art that follow in subsequent sections.
The Notebooks of Leonardo Da Vinci — Volume 1
"The Notebooks of Leonardo Da Vinci — Volume 1" by da Vinci Leonardo is a collection of writings attributed to the renowned Renaissance artist and thinker, composed during the late 15th and early 16th centuries. This work encompasses Leonardo's thoughts on art, science, and philosophy, revealing the multifaceted genius of a man who was as much an artist as he was a scientist. The manuscript dives into various subjects, including perspective, light, shadow, and the principles of painting, capturing the intricate relationship between the visual arts and scientific inquiry. The opening of this volume begins with a preface discussing the unique and often perplexing nature of Leonardo's writings, which were compiled over many years and across various topics without a strict organizational structure. This introduction highlights the challenges faced by translators and interpreters of Leonardo's work due to his idiosyncratic handwriting and erratic arrangement of ideas. Moreover, the text sets the stage for a deeper exploration of Leonardo's concepts, particularly in the realms of perspective and the function of the eye, leading into meticulous observations and revolutionary theories that would influence both artists and scientists long after his time.
El tratado de la pintura
"El tratado de la pintura" by Leonardo da Vinci is a collection of writings gathered from his notebooks between 1482 and 1499. Originally compiled by his heir Francesco Melzi and first published in abridged form in 1651, this treatise argues that painting is a science. Leonardo examines facial expressions, human emotion, and natural observations, including his famous branching rule about tree proportions. Drawing from earlier writers like Leon Battista Alberti, these manuscripts showcase Leonardo's scientific approach to understanding and teaching the art of painting.
Frammenti letterari e filosofici
"Frammenti letterari e filosofici" by Leonardo da Vinci is a collection of literary and philosophical reflections written during the early 20th century. This work is a compilation of various fragments that explore themes of nature, knowledge, morality, and creativity through allegories, fables, and thoughts inspired by the natural world. It aims to present the profound insights and observations of one of history's greatest minds. The opening of the collection delves into Leonardo's passionate relationship with nature and his relentless pursuit of understanding its laws and mysteries. Reflecting on his childhood experiences and early artistic ambitions, it establishes a foundation for the intellectual journey he undertakes throughout his life. The text emphasizes his struggle between the demands of his time for practical accomplishments and his deeper yearning for theoretical and scientific exploration, hinting at the tension that characterized his life and work. The fragments serve not just as historical insights but also as a philosophical inquiry into the nature of existence and knowledge.
Traité élémentaire de la peinture, avec 58 figures d'après les dessins originaux de Le Poussin, dont 34 en taille-douce
"Traité élémentaire de la peinture" by Leonardo da Vinci is a treatise compiled after his death from his notes and fragments. This composite work reorganizes Leonardo's writings on painting into theoretical and practical sections. It explores painting as a philosophical science, emphasizing observation of nature through mathematical, geometric, and optical principles. Leonardo argues that painting deserves recognition among the liberal arts because it applies logic and universal visual communication. The treatise offers both foundational theories and practical guidance for aspiring painters.