Leonardo da Vinci

Leonardo di ser Piero da Vinci (1452 – 1519) was an Italian polymath of the High Renaissance who was active as a painter, draughtsman, engineer, and scientist. Although the exact nature of his contributions to art and science are debated, his genius is undeniable. He is widely considered one of the greatest painters of all time and perhaps the most diversely talented person ever to have lived. His surviving works are estimated to number about 15 paintings, and, with few exceptions, are known to have been widely distributed, copied, and sold. His inventions and scientific studies were far ahead of his time, demonstrating a profound understanding of mechanics, anatomy, and natural phenomena.