Leonardo da Vinci Mona Lisa: an enduring appeal

• The composition technique of the painting makes it one of the most studied works in the history of art and by apprentice artists. It is highly regarded for its modern framing as a portrait that could be painted now.
• More subtly, optical effects are created by the positioning of the young woman’s eyes and her enigmatic smile. Some people say they feel watched by the Mona Lisa, no matter where they are standing.

1. This anecdote demonstrates Leonardo da Vinci’s scientific and anatomical knowledge.
2. As for the Mona Lisa’s famous smile, witness accounts say that a group of musicians played while the painter worked to keep this joyful attitude.

The background is also a textbook case. The sfumato technique is used to create a perspective that merges gently.