Decoding da Vinci

Jun 3, 2024

Decoding da Vinci - NOVA Lecture

Introduction

  • Leonardo da Vinci - legendary artist, scientist, and inventor.
  • Known for the Mona Lisa, the most famous painting on Earth.

The Mona Lisa and Her Significance

  • Vincent Delieuvin: Questions what makes the Mona Lisa so captivating.
  • Francesca Borgo: Highlights the average viewing time (15 seconds) for visitors.
  • Research aims to uncover Leonardo's technique and design decisions.

Scientific Investigations into the Mona Lisa

  • Techniques: Use of infrared imaging and X-rays to study layers of the painting.
  • Findings: Reveals Leonardo made many changes during painting.
  • Paint composition includes layers of oil mixed with powdered minerals.

Historical Context

  • Leonardo's Background: Born in 1452 in Vinci, Italy.
  • An apprentice in Florence, learning under Andrea del Verrocchio.
  • Known for being versatile and innovative, with interests spanning multiple fields.

Leonardo's Notebooks

  • Detailed notebooks covering a wide range of topics from anatomy to engineering.
  • Predictions of modern innovations like flying machines, armored tanks, etc.

Examining Leonardo's Innovations

  • Bridge Project: M.I.T. engineers constructed a scale model of a bridge Leonardo designed in 1502. Demonstrates his grasp of engineering principles.
  • Scientific Tools: Ultrasound, MRI-equivalent tools used to dive deep into the painting's layers.

Techniques in Painting

  • Sfumato: Leonardo’s approach to creating transitions between light and dark without harsh lines. Used to enhance transparency and depth.
  • Layering technique: Thin, multiple layers of oil paint to create depth and lifelike qualities.

Anatomy and Physiology

  • Leonardo’s extensive study of anatomy informed his painting techniques.
  • Known for accurate and detailed depictions of muscles and human form.
  • Study and sketching of human lips and facial muscles for expressive detail.

Optical Illusions and Perception

  • Margaret Livingstone: Suggests that Leonardo understood and utilized principles of human vision to create lifelike effects in his paintings.
  • Optical techniques and perspective play significant roles in how audiences perceive the Mona Lisa’s smile.

Controversy and Restoration

  • Bacchus Painting: Analysis to determine whether it’s by Leonardo. Some aspects match his techniques, others don't.
  • Discussions on whether the Mona Lisa should undergo repainting or restoration to remove the aged varnish.

Digital Restoration

  • Pascal Cotte: Used high-tech scanning to digitally restore Mona Lisa’s colors, revealing how it might have originally looked.

Legacy of Leonardo da Vinci

  • Exhibitions and worldwide tributes marking the 500th anniversary of Leonardo’s death.
  • The unity of art and science in Leonardo’s works makes him a universal genius.
  • Walter Isaacson: Highlights how Leonardo’s integration of arts and sciences is key to his enduring influence.

Conclusion

  • Leonardo’s technique and scientific understanding embolden his art.
  • The Mona Lisa remains an enigma, reflecting the depth and mystery of Leonardo’s genius.
  • Final thoughts on exhibitions and Leonardo’s legacy.