Leonardo da Vinci was an Italian polymath born in 1452, renowned for his contributions to art, science, and engineering. He is best known for masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper, which showcase his exceptional skill in painting and understanding of human anatomy. In addition to his artistic achievements, da Vinci was a keen observer of the natural world. He made significant advancements in various fields, including anatomy, hydraulics, and flight. His notebooks, filled with sketches and ideas, reflect his insatiable curiosity and innovative thinking, making him a quintessential figure of the Renaissance.