Foot anatomy by Leonardo da Vinci. Historical artwork and notes on the anatomy of the bones of the human foot, by the Italian artist and scientist Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519). The artworks show the foot from underneath, both sides, and above. The articulation of the leg bones with the foot bones is shown, and the lower leg (upper right) and shoulder (upper centre) are also shown. Da Vinci is the first person known to have made detailed studies of anatomy and the proportions of the human body. The notes are an example of his mirror writing, where he wrote backwards, from right to left. The writing can be read normally if viewed in a mirror.