Set of two lithographic prints comprising:
lithographic print of drawing by Leonardo da Vinci entitled The Head of St James in the Last Supper, and architectural sketches, originally drawn c.1485
Acquired by Charles II, King England (1630-85). Bequeathed to Francesco Melzi; purchased by Pompeo Leoni, c.1582-90; Thomas Howard, 2nd Earl of Arundel by 1630 and finally resting with The Royal Collection by 1690.A study of St James for The Last Supper 1495 -1485, refectory of Santa Maria delle Grazie, Milan. In the final painting Leonardo has transformed the youth seen here, into an older man with a beard. Probably a quick sketch drawn from life with the addition of three architectural studies depicting a corner bastion and a plan of the same. The diversity of these sketches suggest that this is an informal work study.
Print size inches: 6.8 x 9.7 together with lithographic print of drawing by Leonardo da Vinci entitled The Head of Leda, originally drawn c.1504-6
Acquired by Charles II, King England (1630-85). Bequeathed to Francesco Melzi; purchased by Pompeo Leoni, c.1582-90; Thomas Howard, 2nd Earl of Arundel by 1630 and finally resting with The Royal Collection by 1690.Pen and ink over black chalk. This is a study, four of which survive, for the head of Leda in the painting Leda and the Swan. The theme is based on the mythical tale of Leda seduced by Jupiter in the form of a swan. Leonardo demonstrates his attention to detail with the whorls and braids of the hairstyle, not dissimilar to forms created by water. The painting itself does not survive, having been destroyed in the eighteenth century.
Print size inches: 6 x 7.2