Mona lisa louvre

Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa, displayed at the Louvre Museum in Paris, is the world's most famous and most visited painting, drawing millions of visitors each year.

About this subject

The Mona Lisa, also known as La Gioconda, is an oil painting on poplar wood measuring 77 cm by 53 cm, created by Leonardo da Vinci between 1503 and 1519. The work is famous for the enigmatic smile and the sfumato technique that softens outlines. It belongs to the French government and has been on continuous display at the Louvre Museum since 1797, initially at the Palace of Versailles.

In 1911, the painting was stolen from the Louvre by Vincenzo Peruggia, a museum employee, and remained missing for two years until it was recovered in Italy. This incident propelled the Mona Lisa to global fame. Today, it is protected by a bulletproof glass case and kept under controlled temperature and humidity. Visitors queue for long periods to see it in the Salle des États, and an estimated 10 million people view it annually.

The model's identity is widely accepted as Lisa Gherardini, a Florentine noblewoman. Recent infrared studies have revealed layers of paint and underlying sketches, showing that Leonardo made changes over the years. The work is a cultural icon, referenced in films, music, and books, and its fame surpasses any other painting in history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Mona Lisa displayed?

The Mona Lisa is displayed at the Louvre Museum in Paris, in the Denon wing, room 6 (Salle des États).

How many people visit the Mona Lisa each year?

An estimated 10 million people pass through the Salle des États to see it annually.

What is the value of the Mona Lisa?

As a French national treasure, its value has never been officially appraised, but it is considered priceless.