c.1475-80 Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519)
Probably acquired by Charles II; Royal Collection by 1690
This drawing of a ravine may appear fanciful at first sight, an impression not helped by the disproportionately large ducks or swans. But in fact Leonardo has carefully recorded a type of rock formation found in the Arno valley south-east of Florence, caused by the erosion of sandstone into tall jagged pillars.
Pen and ink
22 x 15.8 cm
RL 12395
