Set of two lithographic prints comprising:
lithographic print of drawing by Leonardo da Vinci entitled Neptune with his Sea-horses., originally drawn c.1504-5
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.Black chalk on white paper. A study for the drawing of Neptune for his friend Antonio Segni, master of the papal mint. Although highly praised in the sixteenth century, the large finished drawing is now lost and what we see here is a preparatory study. The flowing design and movement is comparable with the Battle of Anghiari on which Leonardo was working at the same time. At the top of the paper is written, in Leonardo's hand a reminder to 'Abasse icchacalli' (lower the horses).
Print size inches: 9.3 x 6.1 together with lithographic print of drawing by Leonardo da Vinci entitled A Seated Old Man, originally drawn c.1510
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 pen and ink sketch of an old man seated in front of a tree meditating, seemingly looking towards four separate studies of swirling water, a theme which fascinated Leonardo all his life. The inscription in Leonardo's hand explains the 'motion of the surface of the water which resembles hair'. On the verso of this sheet are various architectural studies in red chalk.
Print size inches: 8.6 x 6.3