Leonardo da Vinci's "Portrait of Ginevra Benci" (c. 1474-1478) captures the likeness of a young Florentine woman with remarkable naturalism and a pioneering use of atmospheric perspective.

Painted by Leonardo da Vinci around 1474 to 1478, the "Portrait of Ginevra Benci" is an early work by the Renaissance master. It resides in the National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C. Ginevra de' Benci was a member of a prominent Florentine family; her portrait was likely commissioned to mark either her marriage or her 20th birthday. The juniper bush behind her head serves as a visual pun on her name, 'Ginevra' being similar to 'ginepro', the Italian word for juniper. The portrait is notable for its naturalistic depiction of the sitter and its innovative use of landscape. Ginevra's pale face and introspective gaze are set against a dark background of juniper, creating a striking contrast. The landscape in the background, with its hazy atmosphere and soft light, is one of the earliest examples of aerial perspective. The reverse of the panel features a juniper sprig encircled by a laurel and palm branch, emblems of virtue and intellectual pursuits, respectively. The motto 'Virtutem forma decorat' ('Beauty adorns virtue') is inscribed below.