In this drawing, Leonardo creates an imaginary monster reminiscent of a Chinese dragon. The proportions and manner in which the body and head of the dragon are articulated in this drawing seems to suggest that this is a design for a costume to house two performers, in the manner of a pantomime horse.

The designing of costumes and props for festivities, masquerades and theatrical productions was an enduring interest of Leonardo’s, of which little evidence survives today.