Hailed as one of the greatest artists of the Renaissance and all time, Leonardo da Vinci is celebrated as the master behind two of the world’s most famous paintings - the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper. His groundbreaking anatomical works have remained largely unknown, until now - after being lost to the world for nearly 400 years, The Queen’s Gallery at Buckingham Palace has once again brought to light the magnificent anatomical drawings of Leonardo da Vinci. Leonardo da Vinci: Anatomist is the largest exhibition of da Vinci’s studies of the human body to-date.

Leonardo da Vinci’s formal training in anatomy began at a young age, with his apprenticeship to Andrea del Verrochio, who insisted that all his pupils learn anatomy. Inspired by his teachings, da Vinci always strived to incorporate movement and expression into his paintings.

Da Vinci compiled hundreds of drawings and notes on the subject of anatomy, and had intended to publish his work as a treatise on anatomy. Had his innovative work been published, it would have transformed European knowledge of the subject. Upon his death in 1519, the papers and drawings were left to his heir, Francesco Melzi, for publication. Although a small portion of da Vinci’s anatomical works were included in his Treatise on Painting, the vast majority remained hidden from society for centuries.

Today, these drawings are among the Royal Collection’s greatest treasures. This unique exhibition can be seen at The Queen’s Gallery, Buckingham Palace through October 7, 2012.