Self Portrait is one of the highest sketches of Italian painting master Leonardo da Vinci. His sketch works of art has reached very high height known as the model of sketch art. In this Self Portrait, the painter is very observant with a rich and varied lines and oblique lines with different degrees to express the subtle changes. The lines in the painting are very lively and flexible with a strong generality which some simple strokes contain many turnings, strong stereo sense and vivid character's expressions.
Self Portrait is a sketch work made by a red chalk in about 1513. It is generally believed that it is the last work of da Vinci, which measures 33.3 x 21.3 kilometers. From this picture, we can see the great master da Vinci's thinking, temperament and his profound wisdom eye looks. Every line of the hairs hanging in his face and beard under the chin are very impressive. This makes us know the mental state of da Vinci as an intelligent old man. His nose and lips reveal a firm and inflexible personality and will power. From the painting skills in this picture, we know the painter has infinite creativity and expression. This sketch is now preserved in the library of Turin in Italy.
Self Portrait
When da Vinci created this painting, a lot of places in Italy were occupied by the French. In May 1506, the French occupied Milan. Milan governor Charlie da Ambrose invited da Vinci back. During the 7 years, da Vinci created Virgin and Child with St Anne and other portraits and also made a marshal but failed to make it bronze. At that time, Milan's internal politics remained turbulent which had hampered the painter's work, to some extent. Later, after the French army was deported by the local arms, da Vinci had to leave Milan. In Sep.1513, da Vinci was invited by the Rome Pope Leo ten's brother Jules Anno Medici to return to Rome.
However, the Rome Pope's favorite artist was Rafael, thus da Vinci was disappointed. Then he had to devote himself to scientific research. He often went to the hospital for autopsies, which had attracted the world's misunderstanding. There was a rumor saying that he was a magician who often took the hearts of children to make the medicine, or he did not believe in God and his neighbors never saw his going to the church. Some people even said when he heard mass, his body would get goose bumps. What was worse was that some said he made a poisonous liquid. The Pope ordered him not to make autopsy. During this period, one of his favorite students committed suicide and another student left him for Rafael. A few timeserving people made more trouble and spread the rumors to hurt da Vinci. It was in this harsh environment that with a very sad mood he painted this picture Self Portrait.
