The artwork “Multi Barrel Gun” is attributed to Leonardo da Vinci and dates back to circa 1481. It originates from Milan, Italy, and is a product of the Early Renaissance, an era marking a revival of interest in the classical arts and sciences. Leonardo da Vinci’s creation falls within the genre of design and showcases his ingenuity as an inventor as well as an artist. Currently, the piece is housed in the Biblioteca Ambrosiana in Milan, Italy.
The artwork presents a mechanical design consisting of a series of sketches that depict a proto-machine gun with multiple barrels. Creation of this concept reveals da Vinci’s foresight in military technology, displaying a device intended for sequential firing. The sketches are highly detailed and include annotations, possibly explaining the mechanism’s operation—these notes, characteristic of da Vinci’s style, often merge technicality with artistry. In the sketches, one can observe a thoughtful arrangement of barrels allowing for a volley of shots, which was a significant innovation at the time. The design portrays several views, illustrating the intricate arrangement of the barrels and the mechanism by which they would be rotated and fired. Da Vinci’s work not only demonstrates his extraordinary talent as an artist but also his profound understanding of mechanics and his capacity to conceptualize ideas far ahead of his time.
