Analysis of a “Lady with an Ermine” by Leonardo Da Vinci

Abstract

In early 1480 Leonardo da Vinci left Florence and moved to Milan, where he received important commissions from the Duke Ludovico Sforza. The most famous work performed by Leonardo during this period is the “Last Supper”, and the best psychological portrait he has created then is “Lady with an Ermine” in 1490. The women depicted in the painting is Cecilia Gallerani, Ludovico Sforza’s favorite. Upon closer examination of the painting, we discovered three details. Through the program Paint X, we moved these details to the final locations. By moving three details on the painting “Lady with an Ermine” we get the image of a crossed snake. We think that the ermine, who looks like a mongoose in dimensions, is associated with Ludovico Sforza. In the crossed serpent, Leonardo implies any danger from which Ludovico protects Cecilia.