Leonardo Da Vinci (Italian, 1452-1519)
Known as the master artist of the Italian Renaissance, Leonardo Da Vinci was a scientist, inventor, painter, and sculptor. He was a versatile thinker with the ability to synthesize knowledge across multiple disciplines, but best known for his paintings the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper. Both demonstrate his mastery of figure painting, expression, light, shadow, and perspective. Leonardo was also an avid inventor, designing machines for flying, warfare, and engineering. His scientific pursuits included anatomical studies and observations of nature, and he made significant contributions to the fields of botany, geology, and astronomy. He died in France in 1519, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and influence artists, scientists, and thinkers today.