What you are looking at
A young woman turns to her left, holding a white ermine that turns the same way, against a dark background. Her hand is painted with every knuckle and tendon.
Why it is famous
The sitter is generally identified as Cecilia Gallerani, a young woman at the court of Ludovico Sforza in Milan. It is one of only four portraits of women by Leonardo. It belongs to Poland's Czartoryski collection, which the Polish state bought in 2016.
How big is Lady with an Ermine?
Lady with an Ermine measures 54 × 39 cm (21.3 × 15.4 in), without its frame. It is smaller than the Mona Lisa: about 50% of its area.
Compare it with other paintings
Where to see it
It is shown at the Czartoryski Museum in Kraków, part of the National Museum in Kraków.
Museums move and lend paintings. Check the museum's website before you travel to see one work.
More by Leonardo da Vinci
Vitruvian ManLeonardo da Vinci, c. 1490 Venice
The Last SupperLeonardo da Vinci, c. 1495 to 1498 Milan
All Leonardo da Vinci paintings
Frequently asked questions
Who painted Lady with an Ermine?
Leonardo da Vinci painted Lady with an Ermine in c. 1490.
Where is the Lady with an Ermine?
Lady with an Ermine is in the Czartoryski Museum (National Museum in Kraków), Kraków, Poland.
How big is Lady with an Ermine?
54 × 39 cm (21.3 × 15.4 in). It is smaller than the Mona Lisa: about 50% of its area.
What is Lady with an Ermine made with?
Oil on walnut panel.
Sources: Wikidata Q474338; Wikipedia, "Lady with an Ermine". Checked October 17, 2026. How we check.