Sketches found on back of da Vinci work

Louvre researchers found drawings through use of infrared camera

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updated 8:09 p.m. ET Dec. 18, 2008

PARIS - Researchers have found three previously unknown sketches on the back of a painting Leonardo da Vinci that may have been drawn by the Renaissance master.

Paris' Louvre Museum says the sketches feature a horse head, part of a skull and baby Jesus with a lamb. Researchers using infrared cameras found them on the back of "The Virgin and Child with Saint Anne."

In a statement Thursday, the Louvre said the style was reminiscent of Leonardo's. Researchers are working to determine whether he drew them.

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The sketches are barely visible to the eye. They were discovered during an in-depth examination using an infrared camera that picks up traces of carbon-based pigments often used for sketches.

The painting is in the Louvre's collection.