Leda and the Swan
Based on a composition by Leonardo da Vinci (Italian, 1452-1519) known through drawings
Artist/maker unknown, Italian. Follower of Leonardo da Vinci, Italian (active Florence, Milan, Mantua, Rome, and France), 1452 - 1519.
Date:
Early 16th centuryMedium:
Oil on panelDimensions:
51 5/8 x 30 inches (131.1 x 76.2 cm)Curatorial Department:
European Painting before 1900, Johnson CollectionObject Location:
Cat. 393Credit Line:
John G. Johnson Collection, 1917
Early 16th centuryMedium:
Oil on panelDimensions:
51 5/8 x 30 inches (131.1 x 76.2 cm)Curatorial Department:
European Painting before 1900, Johnson CollectionObject Location:
Currently not on view
Accession Number:Cat. 393Credit Line:
John G. Johnson Collection, 1917
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This painting of the standing Leda is based on Leonardo da Vinci's now-lost version of the same subject, known today mainly through copies. Leda embraces Zeus, who came to her in the form of a swan, while turning to observe the two sets of newly hatched twins, the result of their union. The Netherlandish landscape suggests a departure from Leonardo's original. Two artists may have worked on this painting: one for the figures and another for the landscape. The composition evidences the practice of adopting Leonardo's models for different settings.
