The artwork titled “Drawing of locks on a river” is attributed to the eminent High Renaissance master Leonardo da Vinci and is believed to have been created around the year 1500 in Italy. Crafted using ink on paper, this work falls into the category of sketches and studies, showcasing da Vinci’s forays into technical and engineering design.
In the artwork, we observe a detailed and nuanced study of a lock system on a river. Leonardo da Vinci’s acute attention to detail and his understanding of hydrodynamics are evident. The drawing reveals the intricacies of a canal lock, which would have been used to manage water levels and allow for safe and efficient passage of vessels along a waterway. Diagonal lines, possibly indicating the flow of water, converge toward the lock structure, emphasizing its functionality and centrality to the composition. The fierce and skillful lines attest to da Vinci’s mastery over his medium and his ability to convey complex engineering concepts with clarity. Surrounding the technical depiction are annotations, likely providing additional context or explanations, characteristic of da Vinci’s habitual practice of annotating his studies.
