The Life of Leonardo da Vinci

Leonardo da Vinci was born on April 15, 1452 in a small village called Vinci. His parents were; Caterina, a peasant, and Ser Piero d’Antnio, on official. He was a illegitimate child.

His father, Ser Piero d’Antonio, was quickly convinced to marry as was his mother. His mother married a cowherd. During that period illegitimate and legitimate children lived together, even in noble homes. Leonardo did not have half siblings until he was 24.

Even as child Leonardo was extremely gifted, often out sketching animals and plants, playing the lyre and was also strong in maths.

He was apprenticed to Andrea Verrocchio, a renowned; sculptor, goldsmith and painter. Under Verrocchio he learnt, grinding and mixing pigments, mixing colours, preparing panels, the actual act of painting, clay work and casting bronze. 

Although Leonardo is best known for his paintings, very few artists painted as little and drew as much as he. Over 10,000 drawings made by Leonardo have been found.

Leonardo also worked for the Duke of Milan. While he worked for the duke of Milan, Leonardo prepared an array of designs for weapons including, catapults, missiles, tank and even a submarine! In 1516, he moved to France where he was to work for King François I As the king did not require that he finish commissions, he spent most of time organising his notebooks. On occasion he had to produce plans for plays and festivals for the King.

 

Leonardo died on 2^nd May, 1519, a few weeks after his 67^th Birthday. He was buried in the Church of St.  Florentine, but his remains were scattered after the Religion Wars.