#173 – Leonardo Goes To Rome (Leonardo 61)

On this episode we focus on the later life of Leonardo da Vinci, examining his self-portrayals, and his relationship with the Medici family. We delve into Leonardo’s image as an “iconic venerable sage” and questions the authenticity of his self-portraits.

Then we look at Leonardo’s move to Rome in 1513, under the patronage of Giovanni de’ Medici, who became Pope Leo X, and his brother Giuliano. He resided in the Villa Belvedere, a hub for intellectuals and artists during the Renaissance, and immersed himself in studying rare plants and fossils. Despite being in an artistic environment, Leonardo is still reluctant to paint, focusing more on the sciences and engineering.