LEONARDO da Vinci
(b. 1452, Vinci, d. 1519, Cloux, near Amboise)

Perspectival study of the Adoration of the Magi

c. 1481
Pen and ink, traces of silverpoint and white on paper, 163 x 290 mm
Galleria degli Uffizi, Florence

In this study in central perspective, Leonardo worked out a background for the Adoration of the Magi. In the centre at the front there is already an indication of how Leonardo intended to achieve a connection between the perspectival space and the figural space, for he has sketched in rocks and grasses. In the panel he took this solution further, but decided to omit the planned roof construction, which would have been a reminder of the stable in Bethlehem.




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