The Ermine Hunt. Allegory with Ermine, Leonardo da Vinci, circa 1490

This ten and brown ink over traces of black chalk on paper drawing depicts a hunter capturing an ermine. It is perhaps intended as the design for the reverse of a medal. According to legend, ermines will protect their immaculately white fur from soiling, even at the risk of death. This is why the ermine served as the visualisation of the knightly motto about personal honour: better dead than dishonoured. Object Type: drawing. Date: circa 1490. Dimensions: Diameter 9.1 cm (3.5 in). Medium: black chalk on paper, pen and brown ink. Collection: Fitzwilliam Museum. The Ermine Hunt