Leonardo Status: As this is nearly identical to the Louvre's Madonna of the Rocks, there is no denying that Leonardo is its artist. Truly fascinating are recent infrared reflectography tests that have uncovered a delicious series of underdrawings wholly attributable to Leonardo. Unlike Madonna, though, this version was originally a triptych that had two angelic side panels painted by the artistic Milanese half-brothers Giovanni Ambrogio (ca. 1455-1508) and Evangelista (1440/50-1490/91) de Predis, as named in the contract.
The Virgin of the Rocks, 1495–1508
Leonardo da Vinci (Italian, 1452-1519)
By Shelley Esaak, About.com Guide
Leonardo da Vinci (Italian, 1452-1519). The Virgin of the Rocks, 1495–1508. Oil on panel. 189.5 × 120 cm (74 5/8 × 47 1/4 in.).
National Gallery, LondonLeonardo Status: As this is nearly identical to the Louvre's Madonna of the Rocks, there is no denying that Leonardo is its artist. Truly fascinating are recent infrared reflectography tests that have uncovered a delicious series of underdrawings wholly attributable to Leonardo. Unlike Madonna, though, this version was originally a triptych that had two angelic side panels painted by the artistic Milanese half-brothers Giovanni Ambrogio (ca. 1455-1508) and Evangelista (1440/50-1490/91) de Predis, as named in the contract.
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