Unveiling Da Vinci: A Rare Look at a Hidden Masterpiece

In a nod to the Milan Cortina Olympics, visitors have a rare chance to view Leonardo da Vinci's unfinished painting during restoration at Milan's Sforza Castle. This vast artwork, hidden for centuries, depicts a pergola with flowering branches and offers a glimpse into Da Vinci's scientific curiosity.

In a tribute to the Milan Cortina Olympics, cultural officials in Milan are offering a rare opportunity for visitors to view a long-concealed wall and ceiling painting by Leonardo da Vinci amid ongoing restorations.

The intricate artwork, housed within the historic Sforza Castle, displays a pergola intertwined with flowering branches and was obscured for centuries behind towering scaffolding in the Sala delle Asse. Records reveal that Da Vinci began this masterpiece but left it unfinished due to the impending French arrival in Milan in 1498, which forced him to flee. The castle, under French occupation, served as a military barracks, leading to the painting's concealment under layers of plaster until its rediscovery in the early 20th century.

Now, visitors can ascend the scaffolding to observe restorers meticulously cleaning the painting. Employing Japanese rice paper with demineralized water, they carefully remove salt deposits from the walls. "Leonardo's painting is delicate, requiring centimeter-by-centimeter attention," said Luca Tosi, heritage curator at the castle. The painting, a study of leaves and plants, exemplifies Da Vinci's famed scientific exploration, noted Tomasso Sacchi, Milan's culture chief. The viewing window is open from February 7 to March 14, after which the work will resume privately for 18 months.

(With inputs from agencies.)