The gallery is only one of four galleries in the UK to show the works by the Italian renaissance artist.

The artist's work drew 100,000 visitors to the show in Liverpool

Each of the da Vinci drawings has been specially chosen from the Royal Collection, housed at Windsor Castle.

Da Vinci was born in 1452, and became famous for his work as a sculptor, painter, architect, engineer and scientist.

The touring exhibition drew 100,000 visitors in Liverpool and is due to also be shown in Sheffield and Belfast.

The Swansea exhibition is seen as a rare chance for art lovers in Wales to enjoy da Vinci's work.

These are 10 of the finest from 600 in the Royal Collection.

Martin Clayton, curator, Royal Collection

Royal Collection curator Martin Clayton said Swansea had been chosen because of its record of putting on excellent shows.

"We worked with the Glyn Vivian Gallery on an exhibition of Canaletto's work five years ago," said Mr Clayton.

"We knew it was a serious gallery, with great staff capable of putting on a good display of the drawings.

"These are 10 of the finest from 600 in the Royal Collection.

'Unique opportunity'

"They have never been seen before in Wales and there no da Vinci drawings that I know of on display currently anywhere in Wales.

"So this is a unique opportunity for the people of south Wales to see his work."

He added: "It is satisfying to put on an exhibition like this, reaching other people outside of London Mr Clayton said the drawings held an "endless fascination" for art lovers.

"I never get tired of them! They have so many layers and connect with other drawings, through their little dialogues."