Lady with an Ermine (c. 1490) — Leonardo da Vinci

Poise, intellect, and a whisper of movement. Leonardo’s portrait—thought to depict Cecilia Gallerani—turns a glance into theatre: the sitter pivots, light brushes her cheek, and the white ermine nestles in her arms like a living emblem. Quiet, exquisite, and endlessly magnetic.

Why it captivates

• Renaissance mastery — modelling in light and shadow so soft it feels breathed-on.

• A living moment — the turned head and alert eyes suggest a story just offstage.

• Symbol & portrait — the ermine as purity, wit, and a courtly device linked to Ludovico Sforza.

• Elegant palette — warm flesh tones, deep blues, and restrained highlights.

• Instant classic — a refined focal point for study, salon, or bedroom.

What you’ll see

A three-quarter portrait with the sitter in profile-turn, hair bound in a delicate coazzone braid, hands articulated with surgical grace, and a sleek ermine whose pelt and paws are rendered with astonishing subtlety. The black ground and simple dress make gesture and gaze the entire drama.

A richer historical frame

Painted around 1489–1490 at the Milanese court, this work shows Leonardo’s portrait revolution in full bloom: psychological presence, sfumato modelling, and symbolism that reads quietly but deeply. The ermine—court emblem and moral sign—folds status, allegory, and affection into one unforgettable companion.

Choose your finish

🌟 Heavyweight Paper (160 gsm matte)
Archival-grade, smooth matte stock ideal for framing under glass. Crisp detail, minimal glare.

💎 Laminated (True Encapsulation)
Edge-to-edge seal in 2 × 80-micron gloss laminate. Durable, wipe-clean—perfect for busy spaces.

🪵 Laminated + Timber Hang Rails (Ready to hang)
Natural timber rails with fitted hanging cord; no frame required.
Please allow up to 10 working days for hang-railed delivery.

🏆 Archival Canvas (395 gsm HP Professional Matte)
Museum-quality texture with pigment-based, fade-resistant inks for rich tone and fine gradation.

🪵 Canvas + Timber Hang Rails (Gallery-ready)
As above, supplied with lacquered natural timber rails and hanging cord.
Please allow up to 10 working days for hang-railed delivery.

Size (W × H)

625 × 841 mm (approx. 24.61 × 33.11 in)

• Orientation: Portrait

• Aspect ratio: ~0.743 : 1

• Nearest standard frame: A1 (594 × 841 mm) — portrait

• Framing tips:

  • Classic: A1 frame with a mat window cut to ~621 × 837 mm (2–3 mm overlap).

  • Contemporary: float-mount in A1 to reveal sheet edges and a clean shadow gap.

Custom sizing: Available on request (alternative aspect ratios or an added white border).

Specifications

Who it’s for

• Renaissance lovers & collectors of iconic portraits

• Designers & stylists curating calm, elegant rooms

• Educators & students of art history and symbolism

• Gift-givers seeking a refined, meaningful classic

Our Commitment

Every print is produced locally in Australia on premium substrates with careful colour management, then checked and packed by hand so it arrives ready to impress. From studio to wall, we stand behind the craftsmanship and historical integrity of your piece.

Invite Leonardo’s quiet brilliance into your space—order your Lady with an Ermine print today.