Mona Lisa Today

The Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519), is a pinnacle of achievement of the Italian Renaissance and the most famous painting in the world. Instantly recognizable today, the painting looks considerably different than it would have when created in 1503. Colors have faded and details are now lost, but recent scientific studies suggest how the painting would have appeared when still fresh from Leonardo's easel. Using the extensive data conducted by a team of experts from the Louvre, Paris, and after her own research, artist Jenness Cortez was commissioned to paint a modern-day reproduction that shows the vibrant colors and fresh details of the original. This presentation of the modern reproduction of The Mona Lisa is on view to celebrate the Dayton Art Institute's centennial as well as the 500th anniversary of Leonardo's death in 1519