Home > Mary Evans Prints Online > Royal Aeronautical Society Collection > Photographic Collection > *NEW* Glass Lantern Slide Scans
Da Vincis prone-type ornithopter
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Da Vincis prone-type ornithopter
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 19920818
© The Royal Aeronautical Society (National Aerospace Library) / Mary Evans Picture Library
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases Leonardo da Vinci's groundbreaking design for a prone-type ornithopter, a flying machine inspired by the flight of birds. Da Vinci, the renowned polymath of the Italian Renaissance, meticulously sketched this intricate invention in the late 15th century. His ornithopter, also known as the "flying machine," was one of numerous attempts to harness the power of nature and create a machine that could soar through the skies like a bird. The prone-type ornithopter depicted in this print is distinct for its innovative design, featuring a human pilot lying prone on a flexible wing structure. The pilot's body would flap the wings by pushing against them with their legs and arms, mimicking the natural motion of bird flight. The machine's wings were designed to be lightweight and flexible, with a complex network of interconnected bones and muscles. Da Vinci's ornithopter was far ahead of its time, as the technology and materials necessary to build a functional flying machine did not yet exist. However, his vision and innovative design laid the groundwork for future aviation pioneers. This print is a testament to Da Vinci's genius and his unwavering curiosity about the natural world, inspiring generations of inventors, engineers, and dreamers. The intricate details of the print reveal the depth of Da Vinci's understanding of the mechanics of flight and the delicate balance required to create a machine that could mimic the grace and agility of a bird. The print is a stunning reminder of the power of human ingenuity and the boundless potential of the human imagination.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
