|
|
This was Leonardo's first independent commission. The painting was meant for the monks od San Donato Scopeto, and was signed for under rather curious terms. In essence the monks wanted a free painting. Some rather elaborate clauses stated that Leonardo was to be paid by a merchant linked the monastery, but upon payment, Leonardo was to contribute the money to the dowry of the merchants daughter. In addition to all of this, Leonardo was to pay for all of the paint and gold leaf himself. In spite of all this, Leonardo was not deterred and preparatory work showed he had a keen interest in the subject. However, the painting was never completed and the exasperated monks cut off their payments