LEONARDO DA VINCI 1452-1519

Leonardo da VINCI Vinci, 1452–Amboise, 1519 Studies for the Head of Leda Black chalk, pen and brown ink About 1505–1506 In his preparatory sketches for Leda’s head, Leonardo drew a whole series of elaborately braided hairstyles; he even made careful studies of the back view, which would not be seen in the painting!These drawings attest to his keen interest in the complex interlacing of geome- trical forms. The Royal Collection, Windsor, RL 12516, loaned by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II Leonardo da VINCI Vinci, 1452–Amboise, 1519 Studies for the Head of Leda Black chalk, pen and brown ink About 1505–1506 The hairstyles in some versions of Leda painted by Leonardo’s assistants resemble the ones in these ink sketches. But a note written by Leonardo next to one of these studies – ‘this one can be removed and refitted without damage’ – suggests a design for a theatre or party accessory. The Royal Collection, Windsor, RL 12515 and 12517, loaned by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II 157 158