What's Inside Leonardo Da Vinci's Notebooks?

Adam shares with us another piece from his collection of "impossible objects"--replicas of artifacts that we would never be able to touch and examine in person. He has just received perfect recreations of Leonardo da Vinci's Codex Forester III: the artist's notes, diagrams, and sketches pertaining to locking devices, architecture, and human and animal anatomy. These creations by paper artist Stefano Tartaglione are some of the most compelling replicas in Adam's collection.
Adam's previous examinations of Da Vinci codex replicas: • Adam Savage's Leonardo... • Leonardo Da Vinci's Co...
Find these replica notebooks here: www.collezioneapocrifadavinci... / collezioneapocrifadavinci
Learn more about the original notebooks: www.vam.ac.uk/articles/leonar...
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Intro bumper by Abe Dieckman
Thanks for watching!

[@tested]

Adam's previous examinations of Da Vinci codex replicas: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oYO7lHd_rNZnjq8 kzbin.info/www/bejne/pHTSlndtpNCli5o Find these replica notebooks here: www.collezioneapocrifadavinci.it/ facebook.com/CollezioneApocrifadaVinci/ Learn more about the original notebooks: www.vam.ac.uk/articles/leonardo-da-vincis-notebooks

[@ParallelPenguins]

It’s so nice seeing that Da Vinci’s sketchbooks are just as messy as any artist’s sketchbooks.

[@tested]

Right?!

[@andrewjenkins9965]

He skipped pages! I skip pages! I feel like so much less of a weirdo.

[@agnuswulf]

@@andrewjenkins9965 Good Ol' Leo probably had one of those "damn, if I skip I waste space and break rythm, but if I don't, there's no guarantee I'd be able to conclude what I was getting on on those pages, and also the layout may not be that cool so I guess that's alright" and then proceeds to never get back to those pages.

[@andrewjenkins9965]

@@agnuswulf RIGHT? I might need that space to pick up my thoughts later!

[@ArcticBanshee]

One of us One of us

[@MechaWrecka]

Those anatomy drawings are insane. I can't imagine how valuable that info would be centuries ago.

[@kerriemckinstry-jett8625]

Tragically, Leonardo never published them. If he had, Leonardo, not Vesalius, would now be known as the founder of modern anatomical study.

[@pa4tim]

It is told he ordered to dig up secretly at night just buried corpses to dissect and study them. His drawings are amazing. I often think what would a genius as Leonardo accomplice if he was born in the 21 centurie where he would have had acces to a lot more information (internet) You can now study things like physics just on your own. Even watch things like the Feynman lectures so at home on you tube. A privilege before only possible for relative a few people.

[@kerriemckinstry-jett8625]

@@pa4tim If I recall correctly, it was technically illegal to do dissections if you weren't a surgeon. He had to pretty much bribe people at the early modern version of morgues to be allowed to dissect bodies. I would say this was why he didn't publish, but I doubt that would've stopped him. Instead, it's more likely that his own propensity for starting projects & stopping them randomly when something else caught his attention is the real culprit.

[@pa4tim]

@@kerriemckinstry-jett8625 Sounds like a sort of Asperger syndrome 🙂 I did not know it was forbidden, make sense, I do not think you are allowed to do that now at your home either. I read it was rather common for scientists in those times not to publish (Had Mabey also to do with the church) I think science like we know it was not yet a real thing in those days. You could probably study art as an apprentice, become a medic, study theology, maybe languages , learn a trade like carpenter but I do not think you could officially study things like physics, math, biology. But I could be wrong.

[@kerriemckinstry-jett8625]

@@pa4timNo one was a "scientist" at all until the term was coined in the 1830s. There wasn't really any formal studying of some of those different topics until around probably the late 16th/early 17th centuries, either (it depends on the country's education system which was mostly for the elite). You could be a "natural philosopher", though. I'm not sure exactly what was considered adequate training for that... usually a teacher in the Greek mode? I'm talking about Western science, of course, but Leonardo was Florentine, so it fits.

[@HBCrigs]

I love how when adam is ageing his own papercraft, he is so rough with it, imparting as much random wear to it as possible, but when he adores someone elses work, he takes such care, like holding a baby bird.

[@HaileISela]

if i recall correctly, in another video where Adam shows and tells about the other pieces by the artist, he talks more extensively about the paper sculpting bit, and I think every single cut and rip is a true facsimile of the original. so this is very different from just the coffee stain and hammer aging of a prop. and i was nervous the whole time until he registered and retracted the knife...

[@drunkenkurage4123]

The level of detail they put into that tiny little notebook is amazing. All the bits of damage, stains, and faded ink, its a work of art.

[@DynamicSeq]

Ehm.. They look pretty photocopied to me...

[@Wallest_Nepten]

I love Adam so much he gives us access to things that most of us will never be able to touch, like this stuff.

[@clearstream67]

Adam's enjoyment was so genuine. It's not often that he's lost for words.

[@SuperVitaminD]

He’s at a lost for words quite often. I’ve seen it in multiple videos…

[@AnthonyELombardi]

What are you talking about he always lost for words

[@metatechhd]

The level of detail in Leonardo Da Vinci's anatomical drawings is mind-blowing! It's fascinating to think about how invaluable that information would have been centuries ago. 🎨🧠🔍 His work truly showcases his genius and his curiosity about the human body. Exploring his notebooks gives us a glimpse into the incredible mind of a true Renaissance man. It's a treasure trove of knowledge and a testament to Da Vinci's everlasting impact on art and science.

[@worldimu]

Yes! Leonardo is definitely a treasure trove of knowledge, and many of us forget he wrote down his thoughts and ideas in his codexes that are equally as profound as many of his illustrations. An Immortal Mentor.

[@irvinm1957]

This was an outstanding experience to see through your emotion and awe of DaVinci's work. Thanks Adam for showing your perspective of this great replication !

[@thepiratecats801]

Those anatomical drawings look like they gave HR Giger some inspiration. Amazing.

[@Weazle13XIII]

If ever i wanted to see a shop tour, its gonna be this guys workshop. Gotta see the workflow that goes into these perfect facsimiles!

[@Puddingbat]

Da Vinci was my childhood icon, and I'm so stoked to see you had a specific commission of his anatomica. I would note one of the anatomica is double sided and is effectively two images in one is you look at it back lit, the one side is superimposed on the other, making a complete display of a body. I think it was from the Royal collection, and was lucky enough to see it exhibited, but my broken brain forgets what it detailed. A superlative and inspirational set of goodies, well done.

[@absolutjackal]

It is both entertaining and enviable that Adam can commission something of such beauty and value as the anatomical drawings and not even really be sure that he in fact did so. I hope to some day be in such a position in life

[@TheStockwell]

Leonardo da Vinci - the greatest overachiever in human history. ❤️

[@worldimu]

Indeed. The tragic thing was at the end of his life he felt like he never accomplished anything.

[@1pcfred]

@@worldimu da Vinci didn't finish a lot of his projects.

[@BigScheer]

His anatomy drawings are so interesting. It's accurate enough to be really impressive for the time, but still far enough away to look like concept art from Prometheus or something. Really cool stuff.

[@bassvibasics479]

Such magnificent artistry. It's almost impossible to comprehend the work and talent on display.

[@worldimu]

Yes, Leonardo was a truly talented. We often forget he was human and had many flaws, but the wisdom he wrote in his diaries is priceless.

[@wmcjrtn]

Thanks for sharing Adam!! Amazing. Love the excitement.

[@JohnLundSweden]

Truly amazing find, fact he did this over 500 years ago is beyond fantastic.

[@worldimu]

Yes it is. Leonardo was ahead of even our time. What is just as astonishing are his thoughts and ideas that he wrote down about life, nature, and art.

[@worldimu]

This is spectacular. A unique look inside Leonardo's mind. His work is so close to perfect that sometimes we forget he was human just like us. A true Immortal Mentor. Thanks for this video Adam.

[@Azryael]

Thank you for sharing!!! That is truly amazing work by all involved!!!

[@inkno701]

I hope one day in the future Adam makes his own notebooks with lots of his drawings and diagrams and notes, in the style of Da Vinci or Guillermo del torro's notebooks

[@princess_styles]

I cannot even put into words how cool this is to me! Like my brain cannot fathom that Leonardo wrote in that specific book! Like that book is older than all of us alive right now. I’d loose my mind if I were able to see it in person. This is why I love history so much especially artists who’ve inspired my art ❤

[@ironageamplification1791]

This is one of the most incredible things I have ever seen. It's surprising to me this video doesn't have millions of views.

[@Adrokk3]

Thank you for showing these to us. Even through a camera lens and far away, I can still partake in a glimpse of the experience. Thank you.

[@Ishyaboiii]

Thank you Adam for all your content. Huge fan, I actually had seen your live performance with Jamie he in Tucson at the UofA with my middle school science teacher. It was such an amazing experience! Thank you so much for being part of my childhood

[@Jemppu]

Aww, that little one was definitely a carry-on notebook. Reminds me of my late dad's pocket diaries.

[@brianschweif8213]

Just stunning work. Thats got to be the most authentic looking aged paper I've ever seen. And what a wonderful insight into the life of one of the first modern genius polymaths. Thanks for sharing it with us, Adam

[@DynamicSeq]

Ehm.. They look pretty photocopied to me...

[@Patriiiiick]

This sorta replica wasn't even a thing I was aware of. They're fantastic.

[@CallousCoder]

Having aged paper stock several times I have to say that this is better than I could! It’s incredible and the writings so gorgeous! ❤❤❤

[@bentationfunkiloglio]

Stunning. Thank you for sharing your experience!

[@derRoteKampfflieger]

When I was in highschool there were a series of hardcover books, in roughly 11x17 format that were reproductions of his notebooks. I don't know if they were the original size or not. I poured over those notebooks for several years. I took many notes too. He had many great quotes and passages of wit and wisdom among the drawings.

[@cenciende9401]

As the most genius gay man to have ever lived, I do not doubt the wit lol

[@JoeVanGogh]

Talk about an artist!!! The drawings are stunning

[@troophq]

There is a great documentary on Da Vinci's creation of the Mona Liza which includes his anatomical studies and the leaps he made as to how the body went together that put him above others on how he depicted the human form in art. An amazing man.

[@worldimu]

Thanks for this. Leonardo was and is a well of knowledge and wisdom for all of us. His thoughts that he wrote in his diaries can still be found today, and include gem after gem of wisdom.

[@JoshuaChaney]

This led me down a really fun and interesting KZbin deep dive! Thanks! Haha

[@dallinpilling5594]

mmmmmmmmm, I LOVED this video, Adam--spiritual, even!

[@allysonadame1841]

I love your enthusiasm!

[@DareDevilDave75]

Those re-creations are absolutely insane. The work da Vinci did that long ago is just mind blowing.

[@DynamicSeq]

Ehm.. They look pretty photocopied to me...

[@aforart7316]

what do you mean? these are not da vinci's sketchbook?

[@lilysceesawjeanmoonlight]

To actually see the mastertry of what DaVinci has studied and you showing us I feel omgosh so veryl privileged

[@andywheatley6149]

absolutely fantastic, if only us mere mortals were able to get these amazing items. Thank you for sharing

[@katemiller8113]

Incredible…thank you, Adam

[@user-harris]

Like Christmas came early🎉! All of his works are mesmerizing. It is easy to see the reason for such excitement. They are wonderful. 👌

[@randallyons8745]

thank you for sharing this and the V and A is fantastic, visited last month

[@faithfulshadow]

Beautiful work

[@zach.0]

This reminds me of the books you read in the MYST video game series. I always loved those books and the drawings and the handwriting.

[@mafftv3801]

Absolutely amazing, masterpiece I would love it!!

[@ibanezleftyclub]

Absolutely stunning.

[@kamikazekumquat4760]

If I had the money, gods would I get some of these. Thank you so much for sharing them. I wanted to CRY just looking at them with you. The sound of the paper, the delicacy of the aging process, every possible detail they could reproduce...just...I mean...an experience...exactly that...an experience.

[@ericthompson3982]

Just beautiful. I really want some.

[@dosesandmimoses]

Don’t you just hate it when your cheeks hurt from smiling too much! Lol.. love the enthusiasm and energy! Thank you for sharing your time, knowledge, and wisdom with everyone.. much gratitude

[@PlungBole]

I wish to own some of these one day they are so amazing I am addicted to all of Leonardo’s work

[@kyle6209]

Adam just crushing it with content

[@abundance9360]

Channelling Leonardo da Vinci. Interesting insights.

[@jennypaxton8159]

As a historian, I feel the same way about the Experience: there’s something deeply profound about being able to touch and hold something with that kind of heritage.

[@melissawilcox5285]

This is awesome!

[@LWJCarroll]

Thanks for letting us see these. Adam it also shows the good money can do, the custody we have of treasures for awhile, the responsibility of passing these on. Done your Will to look after these etc? Thanks again Laurie NZ.

[@lilysceesawjeanmoonlight]

The Anatomical omgosh! Brilliant accomplishment.

[@lumberschef9433]

nothing intelligent to say here other than, Wow. Truly incredible work.

[@XMarkxyz]

The thing that you must know is that Leonardo was much more a scientist, making hypothesis, experiments, guesses and testing them, than he was an artist; so for example he was the first one to understand that the heart is indeed a pump that makes the blood flow all around the body, and how its valves works to regulate flow

[@BoltRM]

You probably already know, but he dissected bodies to get such detail

[@worldimu]

Yes! Very well done. He valued direct experience and nature over everything else. Who knows what we'll uncover from the wisdom he left us in his work and ideas he wrote down.

[@n3rdm4n36]

Imagine the connections DaVinci had in order to be able to get access to human body parts long enough to draw them with such detail

[@KonradTheWizzard]

Among others he worked for the Medicis. That's like working for a state governor, only with more powers. Members of the Medici family probably could ask the hangman to deliver a fresh body directly to Leonardo's workshop or at the very least they could protect him from prosecution for grave robbing.

[@worldimu]

Yes, and he openly discussed working with human cadavers - saying that only if one can overcome the fear, disgust, artistic difficulty, level of consistency needed than maybe one can achieve such realistic depictions in drawing human anatomy.

[@lilysceesawjeanmoonlight]

You're a legend Adam

[@chrissewell1608]

Looks like a collection of my notes, over the years! They are just stroughed around the house!

[@lujho]

I have a big old Taschen book of all this stuff that I got heavily discounted years ago, like $20 or something. This has inspired me to take it out and have a look.

[@derezzFTW]

BEAUTIFUL!

[@nokbeen3654]

Hearing that «thats entirely plausible»-phrase brings back good memories

[@erictremblay7576]

Da Vinci way before is time , Adam good buys so nice

[@LarryRobinsonintothefog]

Awesome to the max!

[@jimr3070]

Wow. Thanks so much for sharing! I had no idea replicas of DaVinci were even a thing!

[@drjitters]

Incredible! What a treasure.

[@havefunbesafe]

Are any of da vincis drawings notes available online as pdf's that we coud prnt out?

[@HappyComfort]

So fantastic 🤯🤩🥳👍 I’m so jealous 😯😜🙀

[@maggs131]

If I was the curator of the original DaVinci notebook, I'd let Adam look through it anytime

[@DavidWhite-zn9os]

I think a curator of the original notebooks would ask Adam to wash his hands first.

[@BoltRM]

I was going to say the same, lol. I'm shocked how dirty his fingers _appear_ to be while handling these treasures

[@stevenbergom3415]

At around 11:00 Adam suddenly reminded me of the opening to Ray Bradbury Theater where Ray looks around and comments on where he gets his ideas.

[@babbagebrassworks4278]

Amazing that more than 5000 pages survived.

[@rask4p]

There's something incredibly magical about being able to handle these items. It's a really special magic that can only exist with a replica, it would be sacrilegious with the originals.

[@aussiefirestorm]

It sounded like you really enjoyed your quickie!

[@greyareaRK1]

The anatomy pages actually look heavy with ink. Amazing.

[@pumirya]

What a cool video. Thanks for the contact.

[@davidheys9750]

Very jealous. :) regarding one of your final statements, about Steampunk. One of these days, it'd be really interesting to see your take on a Steampunk spacesuit. :)

[@njones420]

I was just about to mention if you love these, you'd also love the Vesalius prints which are stunning ... and then you said the name ;)

[@muleskinnerfilms6719]

Wow!

[@ElvesofZion]

I have a thick paperback edition of Da Vinci's notebooks, but some facsimlies would be awesome. I wonder what I could make myself .

[@stayatfoamdadcreations8591]

I have a feeling I wouldn't even be able to afford the paper the illustrations are on. Those are incredible.

[@DynamicSeq]

Ehm.. They look pretty photocopied to me...

[@ChoppzzOG]

Thank you

[@lupiaan2021]

Jaw-dropping indeed...

[@2kidsnosleep]

Ya that is impressive, wow!

[@kerc]

So was the original codex bound like that? Also, is it all true to the original size?

[@user-ru3ql6ji4p]

Leonardo was the ultimate maker!

[@tristiancorbett8896]

Adam savages next project frames and backings for those amazing drawings 😂

[@scoobertmcruppert2915]

So cool

[@nathkrupa3463]

Nice video sir

[@revy1063]

@7:30 yep you pretty much said what we all were thinking lol.

[@davidgekler]

Bellissimo !

[@theotherohlourdespadua1131]

I wonder if there is a company or publisher that sells fascimiles of the Codex Atlanticus which is the biggest amongst Leonardo's notebooks...

[@Trustno1jed]

So cool. Now you should pick something to make from them.

[@e.t.1277]

The little notebook is filled halfways, then flipped over and started from the opposite side. Saves you from having to leafe through the whole book to find what you`re looking for. 🤓

[@Noeland]

WOW.

[@Cee.Jay.71]

Absolutely stunning works and the paper sculpting is incredible. I can't be the only one disappointed that the reverse was plain, modern white but perhaps this is something to do with counterfeiting laws?

[@AnnaAnna-uc2ff]

Wow.

[@MrADVENTGray]

This thing is amazing! A work of art!!

[@daaksanir]

I want your job. Came on this video on my research for a fantasy book series I am writing. Where Leonardo has a prominent role in not only changing this world, but two. I would be just as excited to see these "for real". Literally have a part in my book, on the fantasy world where one character that is inspired by Leonardo remarks of a master piece of a huge book the store owner had made, from books the person already had access to of originals. And he still bought the very expensive book. To borrow.