Francesco Melzi

Born into Milanese nobility in 1491, Melzi was a well-educated and graceful youth who met Leonardo da Vinci around 1505, becoming his favorite pupil due to his talent and character.¹

He accompanied Leonardo to Rome in 1513 and France in 1516. In the French court, while Leonardo received 1,000 gold crowns annually, Melzi was granted 400 crowns.¹

Upon Leonardo's death in 1519, Melzi became his legal executor and heir, inheriting manuscripts, drawings, and tools, dedicating himself to preserving his master's legacy.¹

After Melzi's death, his son Orazio failed to understand the value of the manuscripts, leaving them neglected in an attic, which eventually led to the tragic dispersal of Leonardo's records.¹