Skip to content

Artist Quote by Leonardo da Vinci

“The painter who draws by practise and judgment of the eye without the use of reason is like the mirror which reproduces within itself all the objects which are set opposite to it without knowledge of the same.” quote by Leonardo da Vinci
Download Open image
“The painter who draws by practise and judgment of the eye without the use of reason is like the mirror which reproduces within itself all the objects which are set opposite to it without knowledge of the same.”

Leonardo da Vinci

About This Quote

Source Treat: Treatise on Painting, 1651

The quote emphasizes that true artistic skill comes from visual intuition and practice rather than logical analysis, likening the artist to a mirror that reflects reality without conscious reasoning.

In simple terms: Art relies on intuition and practice, not just logic.

Key Takeaway

Cultivate observation and hands‑on practice.

Themes

art intuition perception creativity

Mood

reflective inspired

Type

philosophical artistic

When to use this quote

  • painting lessons
  • design work
  • visual training
  • skill development

Key Concepts

visual cognition mirror metaphor embodied knowledge

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does intuition guide your creative process?
  • When should you balance reason with instinct?
A Different Perspective

May overlook technical precision and critical analysis.

2.9 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by Leonardo da Vinci

Explore all 664 Leonardo da Vinci quotes

More Artist quotes

Browse all 32,600 Artist quotes