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He did not have any children by blood. But he did adopt a child named Salai.

At that time is was common for young boys to be placed under the apprenticeship of master artists / workmen. Leonardo himself had been apprenticed to Verrocchio at about 12. "Salai" or "Salaino" means the "unclean one" or "little demon". Leonardo gave this name to Gian Giacomo Caprotti after he realized just how mischievous the child was. This child was 10. A few years later he was also asked to educate Count Francesco Melzi (age 14). Both stayed with Leonardo until his death at age 67.

Some historians believe Da Vinci was homosexual and had been arrested at age 24 for sodomy with a 17 year old known male prostitute. He spent two months in jail and was acquitted. This may have convinced him to either live a celibate life or discreetly conduct relationships with same sex partners privately. Police records from the time reveal the prevalence of gay Florentine relationships during that period. It is believed his wards might have been his lovers.

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12y ago

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