Subject
Leonardo, da Vinci, 1452-1519 Books
Best books
da Vinci Leonardo
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.
Maurice W. Brockwell
Leonardo Da Vinci
"Leonardo Da Vinci" by Maurice W. Brockwell is a biography written in the early 20th century that explores the life and achievements of the iconic Renaissance artist and polymath, Leonardo da Vinci. The book likely delves into the various stages of Leonardo's life, from his birth in a small Italian town to his profound influence on art, science, and culture. Brockwell aims to present a comprehensive overview of Leonardo’s multifaceted contributions, providing insights into his major works such as the "Mona Lisa" and "The Last Supper." The narrative follows Leonardo's journey through his early training under Andrea del Verrocchio, detailing his rise as a master artist and engineer in the service of notable figures like Ludovico Sforza. Brockwell captures key moments, such as Leonardo's innovative approach to painting, his technical sketches reflecting his scientific inquiries, and his eventual migration to France. Throughout the biography, readers are introduced to Leonardo's artistic masterpieces, philosophical insights, and the legacy he left behind, emphasizing his status as a universal genius whose influence continues to resonate in modern times.
Unknown
The Drawings of Leonardo da Vinci
"The Drawings of Leonardo da Vinci" by C. Lewis Hind and da Vinci Leonardo is a collection of illustrations and commentary focused on the renowned artist's vast array of drawings and sketches, written in the early 20th century. The book serves as an exploration of Leonardo's profound talent in draughtsmanship, capturing his artistic process and the themes encompassed within his works. It likely addresses the intricate relationship between Leonardo's drawings and his broader contributions to art, science, and philosophy during the Renaissance. The content delves into the breadth of Leonardo da Vinci's creativity, showcasing a multitude of his drawings that span various subjects, including portraits, anatomical studies, and military designs. The book highlights his innovative approaches to depiction, whether it be the nuanced expressions of faces, the dynamic poses of figures, or the study of natural forms. Each illustration is accompanied by insights into Leonardo's methodology and mindset, revealing a restless artist constantly seeking knowledge and understanding. The detailed descriptions convey not just the visual richness of Leonardo's work but the intellectual depth that defined his life and his quest for knowledge across multiple disciplines. Overall, this collection serves both as a celebration of his artistic genius and a scholarly examination of his contributions to the understanding of art and the natural world.
da Vinci Leonardo
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.
Sigmund Freud
Leonardo da Vinci: A Psychosexual Study of an Infantile Reminiscence
"Leonardo da Vinci: A Psychosexual Study of an Infantile Reminiscence" by Sigmund Freud is a psychoanalytic essay published in 1910. Freud examines Leonardo da Vinci's life and art through the lens of psychoanalysis, focusing on a childhood memory involving a bird attacking the infant Leonardo in his crib. The study explores how this early fantasy shaped Leonardo's psychology and artistic work, particularly his paintings of the Virgin Mary with Saint Anne, connecting them to Leonardo's upbringing by two mother figures after his illegitimate birth.
Henry S. Gillette
Leonardo da Vinci, Pathfinder of Science
"Leonardo da Vinci, Pathfinder of Science" by Henry S. Gillette is a biographical account written in the early 1960s. This work delves into the multifaceted life of Leonardo da Vinci, exploring not only his renowned artistic talents but also his significant contributions to science and engineering. The book aims to highlight the lesser-known aspects of Leonardo's genius, particularly his scientific inquiries and innovations that have left a lasting impact on various fields. The opening of the book introduces Leonardo as a curious and imaginative young boy growing up in the town of Vinci. Readers witness his fascination with nature as he collects various specimens from his surroundings and learns to create art from them. The narrative captures a pivotal moment when he completes a commission to paint a shield as a surprise for his father, laying the groundwork for his future as an artist and scientist. As the story progresses, we learn that Leonardo's early experiences and inquisitive nature foreshadow his later achievements in both art and science, setting the stage for a remarkable exploration of his life and contributions throughout the book.
Elbert Hubbard
Little Journeys to the Homes of the Great - Volume 06 Little Journeys to the Homes of Eminent Artists
"Little Journeys to the Homes of the Great - Volume 06" by Elbert Hubbard is a collection of biographical sketches focusing on eminent artists, written in the late 19th century. This volume showcases the lives and contributions of renowned figures such as Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli, exploring their artistic achievements while delving into the personal stories and historical contexts that shaped their work. Hubbard’s reflections on these great artists convey admiration for their creativity and the legacies they left behind. The opening portrays a rich tapestry of thoughts about Raphael, diving into his significance in art history, his relationship with the Preraphaelite Brotherhood, and his genius that transcends time. It recounts Raphael’s early life in Urbino, highlighting his influences, familial ties, and artistic education. With vivid imagery and emotional storytelling, the text sets the stage for understanding how the interplay between his personal experiences and cultural milieu contributed to his monumental success. This insightful portrayal invites readers to appreciate not only the artistry of these masters but also the human stories behind their transformations into legends.
da Vinci Leonardo
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.
Hermann Grothe
Leonardo da Vinci als Ingenieur und Philosoph Ein Beitrag zur Geschichte der Technik und der induktiven Wissenschaften
"Leonardo da Vinci als Ingenieur und Philosoph" by Hermann Grothe is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work explores the significant contributions of Leonardo da Vinci to the fields of natural sciences and technology, positioning him as a pivotal figure in the history of inductive sciences. It aims to shed light on the multifaceted impact of da Vinci's innovations and thoughts, which have often been overshadowed by his legendary artistic achievements. The opening of the book introduces the author's intention to document the historical context and impact of Leonardo da Vinci's engineering and philosophical contributions, emphasizing the need to connect his work to the broader development of technology and science. Grothe discusses the importance of recognizing the historical achievements that preceded da Vinci, illustrating how innovations are often re-discoveries of ideas that were ahead of their time. The text sets the stage for a deeper exploration of Leonardo's life, detailing his early interests and influences and highlighting the dynamic cultural and industrial environment of Renaissance Italy that shaped his pioneering spirit.
Paul Valéry
Introduction à la méthode de Léonard de Vinci
"Introduction à la méthode de Léonard de Vinci" by Paul Valéry is an intellectual treatise written in the late 19th century. This work delves into the methodology and thought processes of the Renaissance genius Leonardo da Vinci, exploring themes of artistic creation, knowledge, and human understanding. Valéry reflects on the complexities of understanding Leonardo's multifaceted intellectual contributions while aiming to present a cohesive perspective on his artistic and scientific pursuits. The opening of the text establishes Valéry's ambitious intent to conceptualize the character of Leonardo da Vinci as a model of human intellect and creativity. He grapples with the challenge of capturing Leonardo's essence while recognizing his own limitations and biases. Valéry discusses the fluid nature of ideas, the interplay between knowledge and artistic expression, and the importance of rigorous thought. Through thoughtful analysis and introspection, he lays the groundwork for a deeper examination of Leonardo's work, illuminating the universal qualities of the human experience in the pursuit of knowledge and artistic mastery.
da Vinci Leonardo
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.
Sigmund Freud
Eine Kindheitserinnerung des Leonardo da Vinci
"Eine Kindheitserinnerung des Leonardo da Vinci" by Sigmund Freud is an essay published in 1910. In this psychoanalytic study, Freud examines Leonardo da Vinci's life and art, focusing on a childhood memory involving a bird visiting his cradle. Freud interprets this fantasy and analyzes Leonardo's paintings, including "The Virgin and Child with Saint Anne," connecting the artist's illegitimate birth and dual maternal figures to his creative work. The essay explores how childhood experiences and unconscious desires shaped one of history's greatest artists.
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