Solving the Mysteries of Leonardo da Vinci's First Known Portrait (1999)

• 45%
• 1999
• Documentary
• Christopher Swann

Ginevra de Benci, the first portrait by Leonardo da Vinci and his only painting in the Western Hemisphere, is both haunting and hypnotic. Utilizing the potential of X-ray analysis, infrared reflectography, and the power of computer technology, this program delves beneath the surface of the painting to unveil fascinating stories about both Ginevra and Leonardo. One of only three extant portraits of women by Leonardo, this portrait depicts the melancholy sixteen-year-old against the background of a juniper bush (ginevro in Italian, a play on her name). It was acquired by the National Gallery in 1967 for the then record price of $5 million. At some point in its history, the painting was cut off at the bottom and one side. Experts use computer technology to reconstruct the missing parts of the painting. Narrated by Meryl Streep.