Da Vinci's Background (05:20)

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Leonardo da Vinci's illegitimate birth occurred near Florence in 1452; he received some education in Latin and Math. Valor in battle was the pinnacle of achievement for men and religions vied for supremacy. Change was coming and Florentine leaders held discussions in the Signoria.

Renaissance (04:33)

Raphael's "The School of Athens" depicted early acceptance of democracy in Europe. Florentine scholars studied Ancient Greeks. The Medici family accumulated power and encouraged the idea of individual worth, allowing recognition and encouragement for artists like da Vinci.

"Mona Lisa" (04:17)

Crowds gather at The Louvre to admire da Vinci's work he began in 1503. At age 16, da Vinci joined Andrea del Verrocchio's studio. He and two others were condemned for sodomy but pardoned.

"The Annunciation" (03:54)

The 1472 painting established da Vinci's reputation. His insight into character set him apart from other artists. "The Adoration of the Magi" is the precursor to many elements that appear in later works.

Court of Ludovico Sforza (06:26)

In 1482, Da Vinci moved to Milan; the Duke of Milan was sympathetic to his talents. From 1483 to 1495 Da Vinci painted "The Virgin of the Rocks," the portrait of Cecilia Gallerani, "La Belle Farroniere," and created a sketch of Isabella d'Este.

"The Last Supper" (03:11)

Da Vinci created the Christian piece in 1497. The painting exhibited challenging markers for future artists.

Da Vinci's Perspective (06:46)

Da Vinci created preparatory drawings for all his works. He kept notebooks of his views on artistic approach and his outlook on life.

Comparison and Approach (03:59)

Aristotle was a major figure of influence in society during da Vinci's time; the two men shared similar qualities. Sketchbooks were a vital aspect of da Vinci's life; subjects included anatomy, flora, fauna, and technology.

"Salvador Mundi" (03:29)

Da Vinci painted the image in 1500. After the death of Sforza, he went to Venice and other cities where he drew maps and arranged festivities. He returned to Florence where he painted "The Madonna with St. Anne" and began the "Mona Lisa."

"St. John the Baptist" (05:55)

Da Vinci did not repeat his work; the 1503 piece was likely his last painting. King Francis I offered da Vinci a home in Amboise where he lived his final years. Da Vinci left no clues to his spiritual beliefs.

Credits: Leonardo da Vinci - An Uncomfortable Genius (00:27)

Credits: Leonardo da Vinci - An Uncomfortable Genius