Leonardo da Vinci's dishevelment. Analyses

The Charm of La Scapigliata

Made in oil, umber and lead white pigments on a small poplar wood panel , the painting is known for its compelling beauty, mysterious bearing and mastery of ombre, a painting technique that blurs the contours and the shades to create a soft and nuanced effect.

La Scapigliata portrays an unfinished sketch of a young woman whose face looks gently downward while her loose, disheveled hair waves in the air behind her. The woman's eyes are half-closed and completely indifferent to the outside world and the observer , while her mouth is slightly shaped into an ambiguous smile, evocative of the Mona Lisa.

The face takes up most of the painting , while the rest of the painting is barely sketched, with a prepared but unpainted background. The differences between the face and the rest of the painting are effectively merged by the mastery of nuance. Art historian Alexander Nagel observes that the sfumato causes the shadows to hide any strokes , contributing to the work's enigmatic appeal.

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Attribution and mystery

There is no real consensus on the painting's subject, date, history, or purpose. It shows an unidentified woman looking down as her hair fills the frame behind her. Many theories have been proposed regarding the subject : whether it is a sketch for an unfinished painting of St. Anne, a study for the London version of the Virgin of the Rocks or Leonardo's lost painting of Leda and the Swan, or a painting deliberately left unfinished for its aesthetic value.

The painting was recorded in the sale in 1826 from the collection of Gaetano Callani to the National Gallery of Parma , where it is currently kept, but evidence of its existence may date back to 1531, when it may have been owned by Isabella d'Este. Although many studies of Leonardo's work do not address the issue, most scholars who discuss the painting consider it to be an autograph work by Leonardo da Vinci and it has been listed as such in various major Leonardo exhibitions.

Name of the work

The Scapigliata does not have a "formal" name but is better known by the nickname "La Scapigliata" in reference to the subject's disheveled and wavy hair. It has also been known by various other names combined with “La Scapigliata”, including “Head of a Woman”, “Head of a Young Woman”, “Head of a Young Girl”, “Head and Shoulders of a Woman” and “Portrait of a Girl".

The true intention of the work's creation is unknown , and it has been variously referred to as a sketch, a drawing, or a painting. Because of the use of paint, it is correctly described as a painting, but scholars continue to debate its sketch- and drawing-like qualities, often linking it to Leonardo's early works, such as the Adoration of the Magi and St. Jerome in the Desert, as well as later works such as The Virgin and Child with Saint Anna and Saint John the Baptist . Art historian Carmen Bambach suggests that it should be described as a “brush drawing” or as a “painted sketch.”

Impact and resonance

La Scapigliata continues to intrigue and fascinate observers with her sweet, dreamy face, flowing hair and majestic use of ombre. The lack of consensus on its origin, subject and purpose adds a veil of mystery that shrouds the painting . This, combined with impeccable technique reminiscent of other iconic works by Leonardo da Vinci, such as the Mona Lisa, makes La Scapigliata a treasure of Renaissance art.

In an era where art was a means to explore new techniques, emotions and subjects, La Scapigliata represents a timeless example of innovation and beauty . His style, which combines elements of painting, drawing and sketching, reflects Leonardo's versatility and genius or, if attributed to one of his pupils, the lasting legacy of his influence.

Furthermore, the mystery surrounding the painting invites deeper reflections on the nature of art itself. La Scapigliata challenges us to consider the power of the unfinished , nuance and ambiguity in capturing the imagination and emotions of the observer. In a world where perfection is often sought, La Scapigliata reminds us of the value of pure expression and artistic spontaneity.

An enigmatic beauty

The Scapigliata is an enigmatic beauty that captures the essence of the Italian Renaissance. Despite the uncertainties surrounding its origin and purpose, the painting remains a masterpiece that captivates with its delicacy and mystery. Whether a work by Leonardo da Vinci or one of his students, the painting represents a fascinating link to a period of extraordinary creativity and artistic innovation. Through the mastery of nuance , the painting creates an ethereal atmosphere that invites the observer to contemplate the mystery and beauty of the depicted figure.

The uncertainty surrounding the painting only adds to its appeal. Observers are invited to lose themselves in the woman's flowing hair and half-closed eyes, and to speculate on the intentions and hidden meaning behind each feature. This masterpiece invites us to reflect on the nature of art and the power it has to convey emotions and tell stories without words.

In an age where we often find ourselves overwhelmed by information and visual stimuli, La Scapigliata offers us a moment of tranquility and reflection. Its subtle beauty and mystery remind us of the value of art as a means of expression and human connection. In this small painting, we can see a reflection of humanity's never-ending search for beauty, meaning and understanding.

The Scapigliata represents much more than a painting . It is a bridge across the centuries, a link to the genius of Leonardo da Vinci, and an invitation to contemplate the depths of artistic expression. With its enchanting visage and technical mastery, this painting continues to enchant and inspire, serving as an enduring reminder of the power and importance of art in the fabric of human society.