Leonardo da Vinci, The Vitruvian Man (ca.
TheVitruvianMan, a late 15th-century drawing, is a prime example of such work.
What is theVitruvian Man?
Leonardo da Vinci, “The Vitruvian Man” (ca. 1492) (Photo:LucnixviaWikimedia Commons, Public domain)
Leonardo’s own interest in anatomy began early in his career while he was still an apprentice.
He is still considered one of the most important anatomists of the time.
Leonardo dissected over 30 corpses to study human anatomy in detail.
His meticulous notes are an incredible testament to his scientific mind.
He wasn’t just interested in how things looked but also how they functioned.
While during this lifetime, Leonardo kept his anatomical drawings to himself, they’ve since been published widely.
“De Architectura” by Marcus Vitruvius Pollio (Photo: Mark Pellegrini viaWikimedia Commons,CC BY-SA 2.5)
In fact, many consider them the earliest examples ofscientific illustration.
What are the perfect proportions?
Two blocks of backward-written text accompany the drawing.
Photo: Leonardo da Vinci viaWikimedia Commons(Public domain)
So, what does the Viturian Man text say?
The length of a man’s outspread arms is equal to his height.
As it’s too fragile to be on display, the piece is rarely exhibited.
Photo: robodread/Depositphotos
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is theVitruvian Manimportant?
Why was theVitruvian Mancreated?
Where is theVitruvian Mannow?
Leonardo’sVitruvian Manhas been in the collection at Venice’s Galleria dell’Accademia since 1822.
Due to its fragile nature, it’s rarely put on display.
Photo: robodread/Depositphotos
