ebackground and the kneeling angel on the left in the Baptism ofChrist . Leonardo's sections of the painting have soft shadings,with shadows concealing the edges. These areas are distinguishedeasily against the sharply defined figures and objects ofVerrocchio, that reflect the style called Early Renaissance.Leonardo's more graceful approach marked the beginning of theHigh Renaissance. However, this style did not become morepopular in Italy for another 25 year . Leonardo actually started the popularization of this style.For this reason Leonardo could be called the "Father of the HighRenaissance." Leonardo's leading skills emerged through hispaintings and his techniques. Leonardo's talents soon drew himaway from the Guild and in 1472 Leonardo finished his firstcomplete painting, Annunciation. In 1478 Leonardo reached thetitle of an Independent Master. His first large painting, TheAdoration of the Magi (begun in 1481), which was left unfinished,was ordered in 1481 for the Monastery of San Donato a Scopeto,Florence. Other works ascribed to his youth are the BenoisMadonna (1478), the portrait Ginevra de' Benci (1474), and theunfinished Saint Jerome (1481). Leonardo expanded his skills toother branches of interest and in 1481 Leonardo wrote anastonishing letter to the Duke of Milan, Ludovico Sforza. In thisletter he stated that he knew how to build portable bridges; that heknew the techniques of constructing bombardments and of makingcannons; that he could build ships as well as armored vehicles,catapults, and other war machines; and that he could executesculpture in marble, bronze, and clay. Thus, he entered the service of the Duke in 1482, working onLudovico's castle, organizing festivals, and he became recognizedas an expert in military engineering and arms. Under the Duke,Leonardo served many positions. He served as principal engineerin the Duke's numerous military enterprises and was active as anarchitect . As a milit...
