Leonardo moves to Milan to serve Ludovico Sforza, the Duke of Milan. He writes a famous letter outlining his skills in military engineering, architecture, and other areas, seeking employment as a multi-talented advisor and artist.

Leonardo paints the first version of "Virgin of the Rocks" for the Confraternity of the Immaculate Conception in San Francesco Grande, Milan. It's a prime example of his sfumato technique and compositional innovation.

Ludovico Sforza commissions Leonardo to create a colossal equestrian statue of his father, Francesco Sforza. Leonardo dedicates considerable time to studying horses and developing plans for the monument, but it is never completed due to political instability and the loss of bronze intended for the sculpture.

Leonardo organizes elaborate court festivities and designs stage sets and theatrical performances for Ludovico Sforza. These events showcase his creativity and technical skills in creating spectacles.

Leonardo paints "The Last Supper" on a wall in the refectory of the Santa Maria delle Grazie monastery in Milan. This masterpiece solidifies his reputation as a leading artist of the Renaissance. However, his experimental fresco technique leads to its eventual deterioration.

French forces, led by King Louis XII, invade Milan, leading to the downfall of Ludovico Sforza and the end of Leonardo's patronage in the city. This prompts Leonardo to leave Milan and begin a period of travel and uncertainty.