Leonardo da Vinci Drawings at Holyroodhouse: A Rare Glimpse

The Queen's Gallery at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh presents 'Leonardo da Vinci: A Life in Drawing,' featuring 80 works from the British Royal Collection. The exhibition, running until March 20, 2020, showcases drawings that once belonged to Francesco Melzi, Leonardo's disciple, who inherited the codices 500 years ago. The collection opens with Melzi's portrait of Leonardo, the only non-Leonardo work on display. Highlights include studies of animals, landscapes, storms, anatomical drawings, and designs for court costumes and mechanical weapons created for Ludovico il Moro during Leonardo's Milanese stay. A notable piece is a drawing of an old man, possibly one of Leonardo's last works, placed opposite Melzi's portrait. Visitors are advised to bring magnifying glasses as none are provided. The exhibition also offers access to Holyroodhouse, founded in 1128 as a monastery and later royal residence.