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Ratings: ★★★★★ (4.8/5)
Genre: Art History, Biography, Science, Renaissance, Coffee Table Book

Book Review:
Martin Kemp's Leonardo da Vinci: The 100 Milestones is a magnificent and fitting tribute to one of the greatest minds in human history, published to commemorate the 500th anniversary of Leonardo's death. Kemp, one of the world's leading Leonardo scholars, has crafted a book that is both a scholarly achievement and a visual delight, offering a fresh and accessible way to appreciate the master's boundless genius.

The book's unique structure is its greatest strength. By focusing on ''100 milestones,'' Kemp takes the reader on a curated journey through Leonardo's entire life and work, spanning art, science, engineering, architecture, and anatomy. Each milestone is presented as a self-contained entry, with a clear and insightful explanation of its significance, accompanied by a stunning, high-quality image. This approach allows for both deep dives into individual works and a broader understanding of the interconnectedness of Leonardo's diverse interests.

The selection of milestones is brilliant. Of course, you'll find the iconic paintings: the Mona Lisa, with her enigmatic smile, and The Last Supper, a masterpiece of narrative and emotion. But the book truly shines in its exploration of Leonardo's less familiar but equally fascinating pursuits. We see his meticulous anatomical drawings, revealing his profound understanding of the human body. We marvel at his visionary engineering designs, from flying machines to military inventions, centuries ahead of their time. We witness his observations of nature, from the flow of water to the growth of plants.

Kemp's commentary is authoritative yet accessible. He explains complex ideas with clarity and enthusiasm, revealing the thinking behind Leonardo's creations. He places each milestone in its historical and personal context, showing how Leonardo's art and science were deeply intertwined.

The book is lavishly illustrated with over 110 stunning images, many in full color. The reproductions are of the highest quality, allowing you to appreciate the subtle details of Leonardo's paintings and the intricate lines of his drawings. It is a true coffee table book, a volume to be treasured and revisited.

For anyone with an interest in Leonardo da Vinci, the Renaissance, or simply the power of human creativity, Leonardo da Vinci: The 100 Milestones is an essential and beautiful addition to any library. It is a masterful celebration of a true genius, by a scholar who has dedicated his life to understanding him. Highly recommended.