Student Cerys Jones publishes imaging research in new book on Leonardo da Vinci
18 February 2019
In June 2016, SEAHA student Cerys Jones captured and analysed multispectral images of three Leonardo da Vinci drawings for the Royal Collection Trust. The first was the study of horsesâ heads, a metalpoint drawing completed circa 1481. The multispectral images uncovered features that could not be seen by the naked eye, including three additional drawings. The final two comprised the study for the drapery of the Virginâs right arm for the painting âThe Virgin and Child with St Anneâ which is held in the Louvre Museum in Paris, and a study of a bearâs foot. The multispectral images of these drawings revealed underdrawings and details of how Leonardo built up his work using a variety of materials.
On the 500-year anniversary of Leonardoâs death, the Royal Collection Trust has published a new book called Leonardo da Vinci: A Closer Look, which features several of the images created by Cerys. The book, written by Alan Donnithorne, investigates many of Leonardoâs drawings using a variety of imaging and analysis techniques to uncover more about the artistâs technique and reveal features that have not been seen for 500 years. The Royal Collection Trustâs webpage for the new page states âCombining technical analysis with a profound understanding of Leonardoâs artistic practices, this book offers an unprecedented glimpse into Leonardoâs works and his mind as both find themselves, for the first time, under the microscope.â
The three Leonardo da Vinci drawings that underwent multispectral imaging.
Cerys also presented this work at the STEM for Britain competition in March 2018. This competition was held at the Houses of Parliament and involves Britainâs early-stage and early-career researchers presenting their research to members of parliament. View and download Cerysâ poster here.
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