Leonardo, The Mona Lisa

During the 20th century, the fame of the ‘Mona Lisa’ spread, establishing itself as the most iconic and recognisable painting of all time. It has been exploited in every sphere of culture and advertising, to the extent that its status as a pop icon has almost overshadowed its artistic value and historical significance. But if we consider Leonardo’s achievements as a pioneering craftsman and the unprecedented qualities of this work, the ‘Mona Lisa’ truly marked a turning point in portraiture. A masterpiece that set new standards in its day and which, five hundred years later, has become the very symbol of art.