Since acquiring the panel painting in 1880, the museum has considered it a highlight of its collection.
More recently, however, they’ve been able to see them in much greater detail.
Together, these technologies proved that Leonardo’s vision forVirgin of the Rocksdrastically evolved during the painting process.
Leonardo da Vinci (1452 – 1519) “ Virgin of the Rocks” – tracing of the lines relating to underdrawing for the first composition, incorporating information from all technical images© The National Gallery, London
Though Mary looks at her child in both cases, her gaze is different in each one.
In addition to these underdrawings, restoration efforts also revealed another hidden gem: a handprint.
Leonardo: Experience a Masterpiecewill be on view from November 9, 2019 through January 12, 2020.
Leonardo da Vinci (1452 – 1519), “ The Virgin with the Infant Saint John the Baptist adoring the Christ Child accompanied by an Angel” (“The Virgin of the Rocks”)Short title: “The Virgin of the Rocks,” about 1491/2-9 and 1506-8. Oil on poplar, thinned and cradled 189.5 x 120 cm© The National Gallery, London
Did you know that there are drawings hidden underneath Leonardo’sVirgin of the Rocks?
Leonardo da Vinci (1452 – 1519) “ Virgin of the Rocks” – tracing of the lines relating to underdrawing for the first composition, incorporating information from all technical images© The National Gallery, London
Tracing of the lines relating to underdrawing for the first composition, incorporating information from all technical images© The National Gallery, London
Detail from hyperspectral imaging data, revealing the drawing for the angel and baby of the first composition (under the landscape at the right side of the painting)© The National Gallery, London
Macro XRF map showing distribution of zinc revealing angel and baby of the first composition (under the landscape at the right side of the painting)© The National Gallery, London
“Virgin of the Rocks” – raking light detail of the Virgin’s eye and cheek including the palm print in the priming layer© The National Gallery, London
