On Painting. A Classic Guide

The series of books "Classic Library on Drawing" includes rare antique editions that have both educational and bibliographical value. This publication is a compilation of manuscripts by the great Italian painter and architect, inventor and scientist, musician and sculptor Leonardo da Vinci. One of the largest representatives of High Renaissance art, this genius devoted only a small part of his time to painting and worked quite slowly. Therefore, his artistic heritage is quantitatively small, and several of his works are lost or heavily damaged. In addition to a dozen mysterious and beautiful works, Leonardo left us a considerable number of sketches, notes, and observations that not only amazed and delighted his contemporaries but also evoke admiration in modern readers. There are about four thousand sheets, having the expansive title "Leonardo's Notebooks" and essentially representing several different collections of his manuscripts. Covering numerous topics, from the theory of visual arts to the specifics of metal smelting and casting processes, from anatomical studies to details of flying machines and weaving looms, from complex reflections on force and movement to astonishing prophetic thoughts about celestial bodies, they provide us with virtually unlimited access to the rich imagination of the great master.