Leonardo da Vinci and The Virgin of the Rocks

'The Virgin of the Rocks' (1495-1508) by Leonardo da Vinci; National Gallery, London

Leonardo da Vinci, born on April 15, 1452, was so much more than 'just' a painter, but it is his 'Mona Lisa' that he is most famous for. I decided not to post it here, not because it's too well-known but I don't think it is his most beautiful work. I have never seen it in real life, so haven't gotten the opportunity yet to fully appreciate it. I have always liked his painting 'The Virgin of the Rocks' or rather details from it, and the London version rather than the Louvre version. Not every detail in the painting I find beautiful. For example, I find John the Baptist (left) and the infant Jesus (right) quite ugly. But the angel (right) and the Virgin Mary (with her hand outstretched in a gesture of blessing) are beautiful. As well as the blue and golden colour shades. This London version is similar to its Louvre version in subject matter and overall composition. But in details, they are different. The London version lacks the colour red but is more defined in detail, less hazy than the Louvre version. The main difference is that in the Louvre version the angel's hand is raised, her/his finger pointing at John the Baptist, while in the London version the angel's hand rests on her/his knee. There is a lot to read about comparisons between the two versions of the painting and also a lot to read about Da Vinci's extraordinary talent and life. I would like to refer you to the links above or simply to the internet.