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

Skis with which one can walk on water (detail)

c. 1480
Metalpoint, pen and ink on paper
Biblioteca Ambrosiana, Milan

Detail from the Codex Atlanticus, fol. 7r.

Leonardo frequently sketched ideas that represented technical applications of known laws. The counterpressure of the water makes it possible to walk on water with a type of ski. The sticks are meant to stabilize the man and enable him to move forwards by using the power of his arms.




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