High Renaissance

When I think of the High Renaissance, I think of the Sistine Chapel, Michelangelo, The Creation of Adam, curvy bodies and vibrant colors, so I was surprised when I learned that this piece is also a High Renaissance work of art. Why this painting is so very popular is certainly a mystery to me. Perhaps because it was done by one of the world’s most famous artists, Leonardo da Vinci. Another reason for its popularity could be the fact than in 1911 it was stolen from the Louvre and later rediscovered in a hotel in Florence a couple of years later. The painting is done with oil on wood and features what some believe to be a portrait of a Florentine woman. Others believe this work to be Da Vinci’s self portrait, but no one can be sure either way. The painting features a woman, slightly smiling and sitting in front of a mysterious background. It is a rather simple painting, but is considered the prototype Renaissance portrait. This painting is significant because it depicts a time when non-holy women could finally be painted and depicted in art. Da Vinci’s painting divulges from the usual standards that a woman must have if she is to be painted, as the Mona Lisa is obviously no Virgin Mary, which is a refreshing take.