Leonardo da Vinci died of natural causes on May 2, 1519, at the age of 67. The cause of death was most likely a combination of respiratory problems and heart failure.
Leonardo da Vinci’s premature death is often attributed to his adventurous lifestyle, which included eating a diet high in meat and wine. However, recent studies suggest that his death may have been caused by a genetic disorder called Marfan syndrome, which can affect the heart and blood vessels.
The Italian polymath was known for his wide-ranging intellect and interests; he created masterpieces in painting, sculpture and architecture as well as engineering and science.
Da Vinci’s notebooks contain hundreds of drawings of inventions like this one. Some were practical — like an idea for a paddlewheel boat — while others seem more like fantasy. But by studying these sketches, historians have been able to piece together what kinds of things Da Vinci was interested in during his lifetime.
In 1485, Leonardo da Vinci began working as an apprentice artist in Florence under the master artist Andrea del Verrocchio. During this time he painted many religious scenes including The Last Supper (1495–98) and The Virgin and Child with St Anne (1499–1508). These paintings are considered among his greatest works.
Leonardo da Vinci was a painter, sculptor, architect, musician and engineer whose work is still considered revolutionary today.
