First Impressions: Leonardo da Vinci

by Richard McLanathan, Richard McLabathan

Follows the life of the versatile artist Leonardo da Vinci, from his childhood near Florence to his death in France

Genres: Biography

92 pages, Hardcover

First published September 1, 1990

Reviews

[Valeddy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Informative enough for those wanting to have an overview of Leonardo's life as a whole picture, that one comes away with an understanding of the many facets of his genius and creations, and the inspirations for his well-known works. It isn't an in depth 900 page behemoth which spends 50 pages on the Mona Lisa's smile alone, and it's not meant to be. Easy to read, but someone that wanted know about Leonardo will either finish the book and be satisfied in their curiosity or be filled with a desire to find something more detailed.

[SpicySenor]

This biography on Leonardo da Vinci is centered on his artwork and is a light read at only 89 pages including pictures. There is much more that made him great but his artwork is what really launched him into stardom. Conveniently, some of these paintings are printed within the book and include sketches as well as analysis. I imagine it would be a great read for any student of art. Though I am inexperienced with art appreciation I still found it interesting. I was happy to read da Vinci was famous for his work even in his own time but the vacuum left after his passing must have been great.

[Isabel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really excellent color prints, including two foldouts. Great explanations of the symbolism of the paintings. I liked the anecdotes about da vinci's penchant for bewildering and alarming people: painting of a dragon in dim light terrified his father, little lizard w bar wings and fish scales glued to it frightened unwelcome visitors... Much more detailed explanation of the complicated politics and unrest that caused L da vinci to relocate so often.