LEONARDO DA VINCI (VINCI 1452-AMBOISE 1519)
Three emblems
c.1508-10RCIN 912701
Each of these emblems has the theme of constancy: a plough; a candle blown by eight winds yet remaining steady; and a waterwheel turning a compass, its needle fixed on a sun or star containing three fleurs-de-lys, a symbol of the French king. Leonardo probably designed the emblems for a courtier in occupied Milan, who wished to express his steadfast loyalty to Louis XII.