Vitruvian Man by Leonardo da Vinci, 1490

Vitruvian Man

Leonardo da Vinci1490Ink and wash on paper

Leonardo's famous drawing of a man inscribed in a circle and square is the most recognized image in the history of science and art combined. Based on the writings of the Roman architect Vitruvius, it represents Leonardo's attempt to relate human proportions to geometry. The warm sepia ink on aged paper creates one of the most intimate palettes in all of his work.

Color Mood

Timelessly warm and intimate. Sepia ink on aged parchment — the simplest possible palette, and the most human. Two colors that between them contain the entire Renaissance ideal of harmony between art and science.

Gallerie dell'Accademia, Venice

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Primary Colors

The dominant colors that define the overall mood and atmosphere of the work.

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Sepia Ink

Figure and annotations

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Aged Parchment

Paper ground

Secondary Colors

Supporting colors that add depth, contrast, and visual interest.

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Dark Ochre

Deeper ink passages

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Warm Cream

Mid-tone parchment

Tertiary Colors

Accent and detail colors that complete the composition.

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Deep Umber

Darkest ink lines

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Golden Tan

Washed areas

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Mid Sepia

Hatching and shadow

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