The 10 Most Famous Artworks of Leonardo da Vinci

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Leonardo da Vinci (15 April 1452 – 2 May 1519) was an Italian polymath of the High Renaissance who was active as a painter, draughtsman, engineer, scientist, theorist, sculptor and architect. While his fame initially rested on his achievements as a painter, he also became known for his notebooks, in which he made drawings and notes on a variety of subjects, including anatomy, astronomy, botany, cartography, painting, and paleontology.

Leonardo’s genius epitomized the Renaissance humanist ideal, and his collective works compose a contribution to later generations of artists matched only by that of his younger contemporary, Michelangelo.

Leonardo is among the greatest painters in the history of art and is often credited as the founder of the High Renaissance. Despite having many lost works and less than 25 attributed major works—including numerous unfinished works—he created some of the most influential paintings in Western art.

niood lists the 10 Most Famous Artworks of Leonardo Da Vinci:

1. Mona Lisa (c. 1503–19)

The “Mona Lisa” (c. 1503–19) is a famous portrait painting by the Italian Renaissance artist Leonardo da Vinci. It has achieved its iconic status due to a combination of factors:

1. Artistic mastery: Leonardo da Vinci’s skill as a painter is evident in the Mona Lisa. The piece showcases his use of sfumato, a technique that softens the transition between colors and creates a smoky, atmospheric effect. The lifelike representation of the subject and the subtle play of light and shadow also demonstrate da Vinci’s expertise.

2. Enigmatic smile: The Mona Lisa’s enigmatic smile has intrigued viewers for centuries. The subtle expression invites speculation about the subject’s emotions and thoughts, adding a layer of mystery to the portrait.

3. The subject: The painting’s subject, Lisa Gherardini, was a woman from Florence, Italy. The portrait’s commission by her husband, Francesco del Giocondo, was relatively common for the time. However, the identity of the subject was not confirmed for centuries, adding to the painting’s mystique.

4. Historical context: Created during the Italian Renaissance, the Mona Lisa is a prime example of the artistic innovations and achievements of that period. As a result, it has become an emblematic representation of the Renaissance.

5. Theft and recovery: In 1911, the Mona Lisa was stolen from the Louvre Museum in Paris, making international headlines. The painting was recovered two years later, significantly raising its profile and adding to its fame.

6. Pop culture: Over time, the Mona Lisa has become ingrained in popular culture, with numerous references, parodies, and adaptations in various media. This widespread recognition has further solidified its status as one of the most famous paintings in the world.

7. Museum home: The Mona Lisa is housed in the Louvre Museum, one of the world’s most prestigious art institutions. The painting’s association with the museum has contributed to its fame and allure.

2. Last Supper (c. 1495–98)

“The Last Supper” (c. 1495–98) is a famous mural painting by the Italian Renaissance artist Leonardo da Vinci. It is celebrated for various reasons, including:

1. Artistic mastery: “The Last Supper” is a prime example of da Vinci’s skill as a painter. The work displays his excellent use of perspective, composition, and anatomical representation. The painting captures a highly emotional moment, as Jesus announces that one of his disciples will betray him.

2. Historical and religious significance: The painting depicts the biblical scene of Jesus’ last meal with his disciples before his crucifixion. As a crucial event in the Christian tradition, the subject matter has resonated with believers for centuries.

3. Technique and innovation: Leonardo da Vinci experimented with a new technique when creating “The Last Supper.” Instead of using the traditional fresco method, which involves applying paint to wet plaster, he painted directly onto the dry wall. Although this technique ultimately led to the painting’s deterioration, it allowed da Vinci to achieve a greater level of detail and subtlety in his work.

4. Cultural impact: “The Last Supper” has had a significant influence on art and popular culture. The painting has been referenced and parodied in various forms of media, and its visual elements have become iconic.

5. Restoration and preservation: The fragile state of “The Last Supper” due to its experimental technique and environmental factors has made its preservation a challenge. Numerous restoration efforts have been undertaken to maintain the painting, further drawing attention to its importance and fame.

6. Intrigue and speculation: The painting has been a source of intrigue and speculation, partly due to its inclusion in works like Dan Brown’s novel “The Da Vinci Code.” The novel popularized theories about hidden messages and symbols within the painting, increasing its fame and interest among the public.

7. Location: “The Last Supper” is housed in the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, Italy. Its location within a UNESCO World Heritage Site has contributed to its prominence as a significant work of art.

3. Vitruvian Man (c. 1490)

The “Vitruvian Man” (c. 1490) is a famous drawing by the Italian Renaissance artist and polymath Leonardo da Vinci. It has achieved its iconic status for various reasons:

1. Artistic mastery: The drawing showcases Leonardo da Vinci’s skill as an artist, combining precise geometric shapes with anatomical detail. The image itself is both aesthetically pleasing and scientifically accurate, which is a testament to da Vinci’s ability to merge art and science.

2. Representation of human proportions: The “Vitruvian Man” demonstrates the ideal proportions of the human body, as described by the Roman architect Vitruvius. By illustrating these proportions, da Vinci aimed to reveal the harmony and balance within the human form, reflecting the Renaissance belief in the beauty and perfection of nature.

3. Intersection of art and science: The drawing exemplifies the connection between art and science during the Renaissance period. Leonardo da Vinci’s studies in anatomy, geometry, and proportion are evident in the “Vitruvian Man,” illustrating the artist’s pursuit of knowledge and understanding of the natural world.

4. Symbol of the Renaissance: The “Vitruvian Man” has become an emblem of the Renaissance, representing the period’s emphasis on the human form, its exploration of the natural world, and its interest in the revival of classical knowledge.

5. Leonardo da Vinci’s notebooks: The “Vitruvian Man” is part of Leonardo’s extensive notebooks, which contain his observations, studies, and inventions in various fields, including anatomy, engineering, and optics. The notebooks provide a fascinating insight into the mind of a genius, and the “Vitruvian Man” is one of the most famous images from these notebooks.

6. Pop culture: The “Vitruvian Man” has become ingrained in popular culture, with numerous references and adaptations in various media, such as films, books, and art. This widespread recognition has contributed to its fame and iconic status.

4. Self Portrait (c. 1490/1515–16)

The Self Portrait (c. 1490/1515–16) attributed to Leonardo da Vinci is a famous drawing that has garnered attention for several reasons:

1. Artistic mastery: The Self Portrait showcases the skill and technique of the artist, with its delicate shading and attention to detail, demonstrating Leonardo’s mastery of the medium.

2. Enigmatic subject: While the drawing is traditionally believed to be a self-portrait of Leonardo da Vinci, there is no definitive evidence to confirm this. The subject’s identity has been a matter of debate among art historians, which adds an element of mystery and intrigue to the work.

3. Rare depiction of the artist: If the Self Portrait is indeed a representation of Leonardo da Vinci, it is one of the few known images of the artist. This rarity makes the drawing even more fascinating and valuable.

4. Leonardo’s renown: As one of the most famous and celebrated artists in history, any artwork associated with Leonardo da Vinci tends to draw significant interest. The Self Portrait, as a possible representation of the artist himself, is no exception.

5. Connection to the artist’s personal life: The Self Portrait, if it is indeed Leonardo, provides a glimpse into the artist’s personal life and character. The introspective and contemplative nature of the portrait has led to speculation about his personality and inner thoughts.

6. Condition and rarity: The Self Portrait is one of the few surviving drawings attributed to Leonardo da Vinci, making it a rare and valuable piece of art history. Additionally, the drawing is in relatively good condition, which adds to its significance.

7. Pop culture: The Self Portrait has been referenced and reproduced in various forms of media, which has contributed to its fame and recognition. Its likeness has been used in films, books, and other artworks, further cementing its iconic status.

5. The Virgin of the Rocks (c. 1483–86)

“The Virgin of the Rocks” (c. 1483–86) is a famous painting by the Italian Renaissance artist Leonardo da Vinci. There are actually two versions of the painting, one housed in the Louvre Museum in Paris and the other in the National Gallery in London. The painting has gained fame and recognition for several reasons:

1. Artistic mastery: Both versions of “The Virgin of the Rocks” showcase Leonardo da Vinci’s exceptional skill as a painter. The paintings feature his signature sfumato technique, which creates a soft and atmospheric effect. The detailed representation of the figures, the landscape, and the play of light and shadow further demonstrate da Vinci’s artistic mastery.

2. Composition and symbolism: The painting features a unique composition, with the Virgin Mary, the infant Jesus, the infant John the Baptist, and an angel all arranged in a pyramidal formation. The gestures and expressions of the figures, along with the intricate landscape, convey a sense of harmony, divinity, and the interconnectedness of nature.

3. Controversial history: The commission for “The Virgin of the Rocks” involved a dispute between Leonardo da Vinci and the Confraternity of the Immaculate Conception in Milan, who originally commissioned the work for their church. The disagreement over payment and the final placement of the painting contributed to the creation of two versions, adding to the intrigue surrounding the artwork.

4. Comparison and analysis: The existence of two versions of “The Virgin of the Rocks” has led to ongoing comparisons and analyses of the differences between the two paintings. These comparisons have provided insights into Leonardo da Vinci’s creative process and the evolution of his artistic style.

5. Museum homes: The Louvre Museum and the National Gallery are both prestigious art institutions that draw millions of visitors each year. The presence of “The Virgin of the Rocks” in these collections has contributed to the painting’s fame and allure.

6. Head of a Woman (1500–10)

7. Lady with an Ermine (c. 1489–91)

“Lady with an Ermine” (c. 1489–91) is a famous painting by the Italian Renaissance artist Leonardo da Vinci. It has gained recognition and fame for several reasons:

1. Artistic mastery: “Lady with an Ermine” showcases Leonardo da Vinci’s exceptional skill as a painter. The painting demonstrates his mastery of the sfumato technique, which results in soft transitions between colors and a subtle, atmospheric effect. The lifelike representation of the subject and the detailed rendering of the ermine further highlight his artistic prowess.

2. Unique subject matter: The painting features a young woman holding an ermine, an unusual and intriguing combination. The presence of the ermine has been interpreted as a symbol of purity or as a reference to the sitter’s family crest. This unique subject matter adds to the painting’s allure and mystery.

3. The sitter: The subject of the painting is believed to be Cecilia Gallerani, the mistress of Ludovico Sforza, Duke of Milan, who was Leonardo’s patron at the time. The connection to the powerful Sforza family and the story of the sitter’s relationship with the Duke have contributed to the painting’s fame.

4. Psychological depth: “Lady with an Ermine” is celebrated for its psychological depth, with the subject’s enigmatic expression and gaze inviting speculation about her thoughts and emotions. Leonardo’s ability to capture the sitter’s inner life is a testament to his artistic genius.

5. Rarity and historical context: “Lady with an Ermine” is one of only a few existing portraits by Leonardo da Vinci, making it a rare and valuable piece of art history. Painted during his time in Milan, the portrait is an important example of his work from that period.

6. Condition and conservation: The painting has survived the centuries in relatively good condition, despite some alterations and restoration efforts. Its survival and the attention given to its conservation have added to its fame and importance.

7. Museum home: “Lady with an Ermine” is part of the collection of the Czartoryski Museum in Kraków, Poland. Its presence in this esteemed institution has helped to solidify its status as a significant work of art.

8. Salvator Mundi (c. 1500)

“Salvator Mundi” (c. 1500) is a painting attributed to the Italian Renaissance artist Leonardo da Vinci. It has gained fame and recognition for several reasons:

1. Artistic mastery: “Salvator Mundi” showcases Leonardo da Vinci’s exceptional skill as a painter. The painting features his signature sfumato technique, which creates a soft and atmospheric effect. The detailed representation of Christ’s face, the orb, and the intricate folds of the drapery further demonstrate da Vinci’s artistic mastery.

2. Subject matter: The painting depicts Christ as the “Savior of the World,” making it an important religious image. The portrayal of Christ with an orb symbolizes his earthly authority and divine role, while his raised hand offers a gesture of blessing.

3. Provenance and rediscovery: The history of “Salvator Mundi” is filled with intrigue. Once part of the collection of King Charles I of England, the painting was lost for centuries and presumed destroyed. It was rediscovered in 2005, heavily damaged and overpainted. After extensive restoration and research, the painting was attributed to Leonardo da Vinci, adding to its fame and significance.

4. Controversial attribution: The attribution of “Salvator Mundi” to Leonardo da Vinci has been a subject of debate among art historians and experts. Some argue that it may be the work of one of Leonardo’s students or followers, rather than the master himself. This controversy has generated considerable interest and discussion surrounding the painting.

5. Record-breaking sale: The painting was sold at auction for US$450.3 million on 15 November 2017 by Christie’s in New York to Prince Badr bin Abdullah, setting a new record for most expensive painting ever sold at public auction.

6. Mysterious whereabouts: After its record-breaking sale, the whereabouts of “Salvator Mundi” became uncertain, as the painting has not been publicly displayed since. This mystery has added to the painting’s allure and intrigue.

7. Connection to other works: “Salvator Mundi” is often compared to other paintings by Leonardo da Vinci, such as “Mona Lisa” and “Saint John the Baptist.” The similarities in style and technique have contributed to the painting’s fame and importance.

9. Ginevra de’ Benci (c. 1474/78)

“Ginevra de’ Benci” (c. 1474/78) is a famous painting by the Italian Renaissance artist Leonardo da Vinci. It has gained recognition and fame for several reasons:

1. Artistic mastery: “Ginevra de’ Benci” showcases Leonardo da Vinci’s exceptional skill as a painter, even at an early stage in his career. The painting demonstrates his mastery of the sfumato technique, which creates a soft, atmospheric effect. The detailed representation of Ginevra’s face, the background landscape, and the intricate botanical elements further highlight his artistic prowess.

2. Psychological depth: The painting is celebrated for its psychological depth, with Ginevra’s enigmatic expression and direct gaze inviting speculation about her thoughts and emotions. Leonardo’s ability to capture the sitter’s inner life is a testament to his artistic genius.

3. Historical context: “Ginevra de’ Benci” is one of Leonardo da Vinci’s earliest known portraits and the only one in a North American collection. Painted during his time in Florence, the portrait is an important example of his work from that period.

4. The sitter: Ginevra de’ Benci was a member of a prominent Florentine family and a poet in her own right. The painting’s connection to an historically significant individual adds to its allure and interest.

5. Innovative composition: Leonardo da Vinci’s innovative approach to portraiture is evident in “Ginevra de’ Benci.” He chose a three-quarter view for the sitter, which was a departure from the traditional profile view commonly used in portraits at that time. This new perspective adds a sense of depth and naturalism to the painting.

6. Museum home: “Ginevra de’ Benci” is part of the collection of the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., one of the most prestigious art institutions in the United States. Its presence in this esteemed institution has helped to solidify its status as a significant work of art.

7. Rarity: As one of only a few existing portraits by Leonardo da Vinci, “Ginevra de’ Benci” is a rare and valuable piece of art history. Its rarity makes it an important example of the artist’s work and adds to its fame.

10. The Virgin and Child with Saint Anne (c. 1503–19)

“The Virgin and Child with Saint Anne” (c. 1503–19) is a famous painting by the Italian Renaissance artist Leonardo da Vinci. It has gained recognition and fame for several reasons:

1. Artistic mastery: The painting showcases Leonardo da Vinci’s exceptional skill as a painter. It features his signature sfumato technique, which creates a soft, atmospheric effect. The detailed representation of the figures, the landscape, and the intricate play of light and shadow further demonstrate his artistic mastery.
2. Complex composition: “The Virgin and Child with Saint Anne” is celebrated for its complex composition, which includes the Virgin Mary, the Christ Child, and Saint Anne. The arrangement of the figures and the interaction between them create a sense of harmony and interconnectedness, showcasing Leonardo’s skill in conveying relationships between his subjects.
3. Innovative techniques: Leonardo employed innovative techniques in the creation of the painting, such as using thin layers of paint to build up color and depth. This approach allowed him to achieve a sense of naturalism and realism that was groundbreaking for his time.
4. Iconography and symbolism: The painting contains rich iconography and symbolism related to Christian themes. The depiction of the Virgin Mary and Saint Anne together is unusual and highlights the importance of maternal love and guidance in the upbringing of Christ.
5. Unfinished nature: “The Virgin and Child with Saint Anne” is believed to be unfinished, as Leonardo da Vinci is known to have worked on the painting for many years. The unfinished nature of the painting has generated interest among art historians and enthusiasts alike, offering insights into the artist’s working methods and techniques.
6. Museum home: The painting is part of the collection of the Louvre Museum in Paris, one of the most prestigious art institutions in the world. Its presence in the Louvre has helped to solidify its status as a significant work of art.
7. Connection to other works: “The Virgin and Child with Saint Anne” is often compared to other paintings by Leonardo da Vinci, such as “The Virgin of the Rocks” and “The Last Supper.” The similarities in style, technique, and subject matter have contributed to the painting’s fame and importance.