Centre of Weight; Note on Giulio and the Study Lock
A statics principle with 'suspended rods', architectural elements, and a dated memorandum (1494)
Under the heading of 'suspended rods', Leonardo states a principle of statics: the centre of every weight comes to rest below the centre of its support. The red-chalk drawing shows stepped architectural elements together with triangular framed figures. A second, dated note records that on 15 September 1494 his assistant Giulio began work on the lock of Leonardo's little study.
On this page
The centre of weight rests below its support
Leonardo sets down a rule of equilibrium: the centre of any weight settles beneath the centre of whatever supports it. It is grouped with the 'suspended rods' of the sheet's heading, hanging bodies that seek a stable hang.
Stepped architectural elements
The drawing works out architectural elements: stepped, block-like courses and triangular framed figures sketched at the left and lower part of the sheet.
Giulio begins the lock of the study
A dated memorandum notes that on 15 September 1494 Giulio began the lock for Leonardo's studiolo (little study). It is one of several jottings tracking his assistants' work.