Most Illustrious Lord, Having now sufficiently considered the specimens of all those who proclaim themselves skilled contrivers of instruments of war, and that the invention and operation of the said instruments are nothing different from those in common use: I shall endeavor, without prejudice to any one else, to explain myself to your Excellency, showing your Lordship my secret, and then offering them to your best pleasure and approbation to work with effect at opportune moments on all those things which, in part, shall be briefly noted below.
1. I have a sort of extremely light and strong bridges, adapted to be most easily carried, and with them you may pursue, and at any time flee from the enemy; and others, secure and indestructible by fire and battle, easy and convenient to lift and place. Also methods of burning and destroying those of the enemy.
2. I know how, when a place is besieged, to take the water out of the trenches, and make endless variety of bridges, and covered ways and ladders, and other machines pertaining to such expeditions.
3. If, by reason of the height of the banks, or the strength of the place and its position, it is impossible, when besieging a place, to avail oneself of the plan of bombardment, I have methods for destroying every rock or other fortress, even if it were founded on a rock, etc.
4. Again, I have kinds of mortars; most convenient and easy to carry; and with these I can fling small stones almost resembling a storm; and with the smoke of these cause great terror to the enemy, to his great detriment and confusion.
5. And if the fight should be at sea I have kinds of many machines most efficient for offense and defense; and vessels which will resist the attack of the largest guns and powder and fumes.
6. I have means by secret and tortuous mines and ways, made without noise, to reach a designated spot, even if it were needed to pass under a trench or a river.
7. I will make covered chariots, safe and unattackable, which, entering among the enemy with their artillery, there is no body of men so great but they would break them. And behind these, infantry could follow quite unhurt and without any hindrance.
8. In case of need I will make big guns, mortars, and light ordnance of fine and useful forms, out of the common type.
9. Where the operation of bombardment might fail, I would contrive catapults, mangonels, trabocchi, and other machines of marvellous efficacy and not in common use. And in short, according to the variety of cases, I can contrive various and endless means of offense and defense.
10. In times of peace I believe I can give perfect satisfaction and to the equal of any other in architecture and the composition of buildings public and private; and in guiding water from one place to another.
11. I can carry out sculpture in marble, bronze, or clay, and also I can do in painting whatever may be done, as well as any other, be he who he may.
Again, the bronze horse may be taken in hand, which is to be to the immortal glory and eternal honor of the prince your father of happy memory, and of the illustrious house of Sforza.
And if any of the above-named things seem to anyone to be impossible or not feasible, I am most ready to make the experiment in your park, or in whatever place may please your Excellency – to whom I comment myself with the utmost humility, etc.
What can we learn from Leonardo da Vinci’s CV
Leonardo da Vinci’s famous CV, written to Ludovico Sforza, the Duke of Milan, provides a remarkable insight into the skills and abilities that made him one of history’s most celebrated polymaths. If used to inspire professionals today, this CV demonstrates the value of a wide-ranging skill set, innovative thinking, and a willingness to solve complex problems. Here’s a breakdown of the abilities and areas da Vinci covered, along with the lines from his CV that highlight each aspect:
1. Innovative Engineering and Design
- Skill in designing military bridges and machines:
- “I have a sort of extremely light and strong bridges, adapted to be most easily carried…”
- Versatility in creating machines for offensive and defensive purposes:
- “Again, I have kinds of mortars; most convenient and easy to carry; and with these I can fling small stones almost resembling a storm…”
2. Problem-Solving in Challenging Environments
- Ability to devise solutions under challenging conditions, such as in sieges:
- “I know how, when a place is besieged, to take the water out of the trenches, and make endless variety of bridges, and covered ways and ladders…”
- Invention of machines that can overcome natural and man-made obstacles:
- “If, by reason of the height of the banks, or the strength of the place and its position… I have methods for destroying every rock or other fortress…”
3. Innovation in Military Technology
- Design of advanced weaponry and fortification techniques:
- “In case of need I will make big guns, mortars, and light ordnance of fine and useful forms, out of the common type.”
- Development of unique machines for naval warfare:
- “And if the fight should be at sea I have kinds of many machines most efficient for offense and defense…”
4. Strategic and Creative Thinking
- Application of creative solutions to complex problems:
- “Where the operation of bombardment might fail, I would contrive catapults, mangonels, trabocchi, and other machines of marvellous efficacy and not in common use.”
5. Adaptability Across Disciplines
- Proficiency in architecture and hydraulics:
- “In times of peace I believe I can give perfect satisfaction… in architecture and the composition of buildings public and private; and in guiding water from one place to another.”
- Mastery in multiple forms of art, including sculpture and painting:
- “I can carry out sculpture in marble, bronze, or clay, and also I can do in painting whatever may be done…”
6. Commitment to Excellence
- Dedication to creating lasting works of art and engineering:
- “Again, the bronze horse may be taken in hand, which is to be to the immortal glory and eternal honor of the prince your father…”
7. Willingness to Demonstrate Capabilities
- Readiness to prove his skills through practical demonstration:
- “And if any of the above-named things seem to anyone to be impossible or not feasible, I am most ready to make the experiment…”
Takeaways for Modern Professionals:
- Innovation and Creativity: Da Vinci’s CV underscores the importance of thinking beyond conventional methods and continuously innovating.
- Versatility and Adaptability: His ability to apply his skills across a range of disciplines—from military engineering to fine arts—serves as a reminder of the value of a diverse skill set.
- Problem-Solving in Complex Situations: Da Vinci’s focus on solving specific, difficult problems highlights the importance of strategic thinking and creativity in overcoming challenges.
- Commitment to Excellence: His dedication to the highest standards in every area of his work is a call to professionals today to strive for quality and excellence in all endeavors.
- Confidence and Proactivity: His willingness to demonstrate his capabilities directly is a lesson in the importance of taking initiative and showcasing one's skills.