Uffizi Drawing Confirms Leonardo da Vinci Was Ambidextrous

Scientific analysis by the Opificio delle Pietre Dure in Florence has confirmed that Leonardo da Vinci was ambidextrous, capable of writing and drawing with both hands. The study focused on the landscape drawing known as 8P, dated August 5, 1473, considered Leonardo's earliest known dated work. The drawing belongs to the Gallerie degli Uffizi and will be exhibited in Vinci from April 15 as part of the 500th anniversary of his death. The research, led by art historian Cecilia Frosinini, used experimental techniques over several weeks. Frosinini explained that Leonardo was born left-handed but was trained to use his right hand as a child; his right-handed calligraphy is refined. She also noted that his mirror writing was likely a voluntary adult choice, possibly inspired by reversed text on tracing sheets.