The artwork, “Study for the Head of Leda,” was created by the celebrated master Leonardo da Vinci around 1506 in Milan, Italy. A fine example of High Renaissance art, this piece is executed on paper using chalk and ink. The dimensions of the artwork are relatively modest, measuring 17.7 cm in height and 14.7 cm in width. The work is characterized as a sketch and study, indicative of Leonardo’s preparatory process for a larger composition.
In this detailed study, the artwork reveals the head of a woman, delicately rendered with fine lines and subtle shading that showcase the artist’s profound understanding of human anatomy and form. The subject’s hair is intricately designed, with tightly curled locks and braided elements that create a textural contrast to the softness of her facial features. Her gaze is downward and slightly to the side, creating a sense of introspection or quiet contemplation. The meticulous strokes capture the softness of the skin and the nuanced expressions that were hallmarks of Leonardo’s portraiture. The artwork conveys a sense of serenity and grace, qualities often found in Leonardo’s depictions of female subjects.
