This piece was likely Leonardo's first portrait commission. It shows Leonardo's attention to detail, which is especially evident in the tight curls that cascade down her face. At some point, this portrait was trimmed along the bottom and the canvas probably showed hands, much in the style of the Mona Lisa.

The verso of Ginevra de' Benci that reads "Virtutem forma decorat", latin which translates into Beauty is the embellishment of virtue. The scroll on which it is written is wrapped around a Juniper branch, an allusion to the subjects name, and sprigs of Laurel in reference to her poetic aspirations.