Portrait of Leonardo da Vinci (from Characaturas by Leonardo da Vinci, from Drawings by Wincelslaus Hollar, out of the Portland Museum) 1786

This print, now at the Met, depicts Leonardo da Vinci and was made using etching, likely in the 17th century. It’s important to note that it was made long after Leonardo’s death by Wenceslaus Hollar. Hollar was part of a generation of artists who played a key role in shaping our understanding of Renaissance masters. Prints like this circulated widely and contributed to establishing the canon of great artists. This image of Leonardo, with his flowing beard and fur-trimmed coat, helped define the popular image of the artist as a genius and intellectual. To fully understand this image, art historians look at its production, circulation, and reception. They consult historical documents, like letters and inventories, to trace how prints were commissioned, sold, and collected. By understanding the social life of images, we gain insight into how artistic reputations are made and how the public's perception of art is shaped.