Final answer:
Leonardo da Vinci's last name 'da Vinci' signifies his birthplace, the Tuscan town of Vinci. This naming convention was common in Italy for artists to be named after their place of origin. His multifaceted talent and notable patronage led to his fame as a painter, scientist, and innovator.
Step-by-step explanation:
Origin of Leonardo da Vinci's Last Name
Leonardo da Vinci, a renowned figure of the Renaissance, received his last name based on the tradition of naming individuals after their place of birth. Born out of wedlock in the Tuscan town of Vinci, Leonardo adopted the name 'da Vinci', which simply means 'of Vinci'. This was a common practice in Italy, where artists would often carry the name of their hometown, especially when hailing from prominent families or well-known locales.
Leonardo, whose full name was Leonardo di ser Piero da Vinci, gained his reputation in Florence, where at the age of seventeen he began his apprenticeship with the celebrated artist Verrocchio. His talent flourished, and he became known for his diverse mastery, not only as a painter but also as a scientist, engineer, and inventor. Throughout his career, da Vinci's work was patronized by powerful figures, such as Lorenzo de' Medici and Ludovico Sforza, and his legacy was cemented by the creation of masterpieces like 'The Last Supper' and the 'Mona Lisa'.
In the later years of his life, Leonardo's status elevated to one of a revered artist, transcending the perception of artists during the Middle Ages as mere artisans. His brilliance was such that he was even visited by King Francis I of France, highlighting the prestige that he had attained. The impact of Leonardo da Vinci on art and science is still celebrated today, indicating the transformative effect of his contributions to various fields of knowledge.