Project Title: Salvator Mundi by Leonardo da Vinci

Original Design: Salvator Mundi (Latin for "Savior of the World") is a painting attributed to Leonardo da Vinci that depicts Jesus Christ in a Renaissance-style robe, holding a crystal orb in his left hand while raising his right hand in a gesture of blessing. The artwork is characterized by Leonardo's signature sfumato technique, which creates a soft, gradual transition between colors and tones. The painting's detailed rendering of Christ's face, hair, and hand, along with the intricate depiction of the crystal orb, exemplifies Leonardo's mastery of realism and light.

Creation Year: Circa 1500

Creation Location: Milan, Italy

Read This if you are Into: Renaissance art, religious art, the works of Leonardo da Vinci, the history of art restoration, and the exploration of divine and human themes through painting.

Why is this important: Salvator Mundi is significant for several reasons. It is one of the fewer than 20 known surviving paintings by Leonardo da Vinci, making it a rare and invaluable example of his work. The painting's history, including its rediscovery, restoration, and authentication, has been a subject of much debate and fascination within the art world. In 2017, *Salvator Mundi* was sold at auction for over $450 million, making it the most expensive painting ever sold at that time, further highlighting its cultural and historical importance. The artwork's depiction of Christ as a universal savior, coupled with Leonardo's artistic genius, continues to captivate audiences and scholars alike