Original Artwork |
One-of-a-kind, hand-drawn heirloom piece

Leonardo da Vinci’s Gran Cavallo. A statue commissioned in1482 by The Duke of Milan Ludovico il Moro to honor his father. Unfinished in Leonardo's time, but not for his lack of effort. Meant to be the largest Equestrian statue of its time, Leonardo spent a large amount of time preparing for the statue. Leonardo studied horses intensely even writing a treatise on horse anatomy. Another treatise, titled Of Weight, included detailed plans for casting the statue. November 1493 a full-size clay model was exhibited at one of the Sforza's' weddings. A note dated December of that same year by Leonardo, he stated his readiness to begin the casting process, but in November 1494, Ludovico gave the bronze to his father-in-law Ercole d'Este to be used to forge cannons for the defend the city from the invasion of Charles VIII. Without the bronze needed for casting the clay model sat idle, then unfortunately used as an archer's target for practicing French soldiers when they invaded Milan in 1949 and decayed to the elements. To add to the artistic failure and Michealangelo (Leonardos Rival) encountered Leonardo at some time and insulted him that he was unable to finish the casting of such a great undertaking. I cannot fathom the feelings he felt, for though I've had artistic failures, the cost of his during his time would have given great heartache. Leonardo was a man of many interests, and he did not enjoy creating all of the art he was commissioned for. But The Horse was of great interest and focus to him. Even on his deathbed it is said he cried for his horse, a piece of his soul. 

It wouldn't be until 5 centuries later in 1977 that the soul of his horse would be born again in the eyes of another artist Charles C. Dent. An amateur artist, collector and flying enthusiast read an article in The National Geographic of Leonardos Defeat, this inspired Dent to re-create the unfinished sculpture in his hometown of Allentown Pennsylvania founding the nonprofit organization Leonardo da Vinci's Horse Inc. A large finance and difficult task that took more than 15 years. The plans Leonardo had spent so much time creating were used in the model. Two full size 24-foot casts were made. One for Milan, and one for Pennsylvania. This drawing I have created is directly referenced from the Milan statue. I used reference of a statue made of Leonardo along with his face sketches by his students to create the image of him below. Finally spirit at rest. I imagine Leonardo smiled from the heavens in the completion of his long-lost horse.  What is time anyway when it comes from the heart. Inspiration is spread through millennia. Many artists including I are deeply motivated and inspired by the Art Masters and creatives that came before us. This artwork I pray will give you the inspiration to pursue your dreams with renewed vigor.