Codex Atlanticus

CA f. 1106 v: Drawings of spring mechanisms and gears

The sheet, folded in the middle, features drawings of springs and gears, also for clock mechanisms. Noteworthy is the drawing in the upper left, depicting a spring seen in perspective. Here Leonardo applies perspective to the depiction of practical tools, evidence of his ability to translate and apply the science of perspective in a drawing of a "mechanical element” which could be produced only on the basis of his drawing, without the aid of written explanations.