Machine sketches with a 'body born of perspective'
Framework and crane sketches, coiled forms, and Leonardo's 'disciple of experience' inscription
The sheet is covered with rapid pen sketches: framework and crane-like mechanisms across the top, a row of tightly wound spiral coils through the centre, and scattered squares crossed by diagonals, triangles and circles. A caption beside the central drawing names it a 'body born of perspective' by Leonardo, 'disciple of experience', to be made without copying any real body, using only simple lines. Ambrosiana cataloguers group the mechanical elements with instruments and machines of defence, including siege machines for defending walls and ventilating fans. Further faint notes not included in the bundle are present on the sheet.
On this page
A 'body born of perspective', made only with simple lines
A note beside the largest drawing calls it a body born of the perspective of Leonardo da Vinci, 'disciple of experience'. It is to be constructed without the example of any existing body, using only simple lines.
Framework, crane-arm and coiled forms
Across the top of the sheet are lightly drawn frames, a long inclined crane-like arm and mechanical assemblies. Through the middle runs a series of tightly wound spiral coils. Ambrosiana catalogue tags associate the machines with defensive instruments and ventilating fans.
Triangles, squares and circles scattered across the sheet
Small geometric figures are dispersed among the machines: inverted triangles, squares crossed by their diagonals, a triangle with an inscribed shape, and plain circles. They read as construction studies rather than finished figures.