Torch, Summer 2006

communicating these truths in his art. These “hidden’” references comprise the “code” Leonardo used to keep the truth in public discourse. Unfortunately, very little of how Leonardo is described is true. As far as homosexuality is concerned, he was accused of a homosexual act, but the charge was thrown out. Even if he were homosexual, he was hardly flamboyant. In his work as an artist, he received only one Vatican commission, not hundreds. In fact, Leonardo produced only 23 works of art that we know of — far fewer than any “important” artist — and only 16 of them were finished. He was not at odds with the church since he lived for three years in the Vatican. Did Leonardo hide secret messages in his work? That’s where The Da Vinci Code turns a little silly. It’s all a part of the conspiracy. Summer 2006 / TORCH 15