Leonardo da Vinci, while having received some training in commercial math at an abacus school, was largely self-taught. He had a complex relationship with his education, often feeling defensive about being unlettered, a term he used ironically. Despite this, he embraced his lack of formal schooling as a foundation for learning through real-world experiences and experiments.

This self-directed approach allowed Leonardo to develop a distinctive perspective, prioritizing practical knowledge over traditional education. His pride in being a disciple of experience reflects his innovative spirit and commitment to exploring the world around him, ultimately contributing to his legacy as a master of art and science.