While many believe there is only one Mona Lisa, there are at least four different versions known to exist, painted by Leonardo da Vinci and his students.
Understanding the Multiple Mona Lisas
The iconic "Mona Lisa" in the Louvre Museum is undoubtedly the most famous and widely recognized portrait, painted by Leonardo da Vinci himself. However, da Vinci often worked with assistants who created copies or variations of his major works, and in some cases, da Vinci himself painted multiple versions.
The existence of several versions highlights the widespread admiration for the artwork during its creation and thereafter, as well as the common practice of workshops producing multiple pieces based on a popular theme or portrait. These different paintings offer unique insights into the artistic practices of the Renaissance era.
Key Versions and Their Locations
The known versions of the Mona Lisa, including the most famous one and those attributed to Leonardo's workshop, can be found in various prestigious institutions and private collections worldwide.
Version Name / Type | Attributed Artists | Current Location | Key Characteristics |
---|---|---|---|
Louvre Mona Lisa | Leonardo da Vinci | Louvre Museum, Paris, France | The most famous and widely accepted original; quintessential Renaissance portraiture. |
Prado Mona Lisa | Leonardo's workshop (likely an assistant, possibly Francesco Melzi or Salaì) | Prado Museum, Madrid, Spain | Believed to be a contemporary copy painted alongside Leonardo's original, possibly revealing the original colors of the Louvre version. |
Isleworth Mona Lisa | Attributed to Leonardo da Vinci, or his workshop | Private Collection (Switzerland) | Depicts a younger version of Lisa Gherardini; its authenticity as a Leonardo original is a subject of ongoing debate. |
Mona Lisa (various) | Leonardo's workshop, students, or later copyists | Numerous Private Collections | Various other copies and adaptations exist, reflecting the enduring appeal and influence of the masterpiece. |
The version housed in the Louvre Museum is the primary work associated with Leonardo da Vinci and is the subject of most global attention and study. The others provide valuable context and demonstrate the collaborative nature of Renaissance art workshops.