Leonardo, discovering the life of Leonardo da Vinci / Serge Bramly ; translated by Sian Reynolds

Translation of: Léonard de Vinci

Includes bibliographical references and index.

While there is no lack of scholarship about the protean genius of da Vinci, this competent biographical treatment can nevertheless be welcomed. Bramly neither seriously elucidates the core elements of da Vinci's scientific and technological concerns nor profoundly illuminates the formal nature of his artistic achievement, but this chronologically structured survey is not without its introductory value. The necessarily frustrating recitation of da Vinci's brilliantly conceived but unfinished or aborted projects is neatly set within the context of contemporary patronage. The central mysteries of this well-documented yet enigmatic personality are suggested without the author's acquiescing to the allure of facile pscyhologizing. But though serviceable, this introduction would have benefited from a more extensive scrutiny of da Vincian literature and a greater appreciation of the impact of the artist's limited oeuvre on the history of art.

Translated from the French to English.