Donald Sassoon and La Gioconda

The book offers an in-depth analysis of the world’s most famous painting. It was created by Leonardo da Vinci, an artist who embodies perfectionism, universality, and realism. With 500 years of art historical theories constantly colliding and converging, Sassoon provides an insightful guided description of La Gioconda. He explores the myth surrounding Monna (Mrs.) Lisa Gherardini. He also discusses Leonardo as a scientist. This further enriches the understanding of the painting’s significance and deepens the insight into its complex context.

First, Donald asks why this particular artwork is so famous. It is indeed strange that in the Grande Galerie at the Louvre, there are works by Rafael, Rembrandt, and Caravaggio. There are also works by Dürer and Vermeer. These artists are renowned for their masterpieces. However, none of them enjoy the same privilege as the Mona Lisa. The Mona Lisa is protected by a special place in a private room. Could Leonardo’s Mona Lisa not hang more openly among the works of all the other great masters?

In the introduction, Donald Sassoon emphasizes the central importance of art theory. He also highlights Giorgio Vasari’s significance for understanding art history and the painting La Gioconda. Art history encompasses not only images and representations but also deeper theoretical and contextual perspectives. I have personally experienced this in my own work. Art theory is fundamental to this discipline. It makes the study of art history more engaging and insightful.

The book explores the mystique surrounding the depiction of the Mona Lisa. It raises thoughts about the extensive research conducted. Many texts have been written about the work. It is interesting to note that not only art theoretical perspectives surround the Mona Lisa. Literary and cultural discussions also span various genres and forms of expression.

The interesting and obvious aspect of this book is its descriptions. It recounts the various consequences related to the theft of the painting in 1911. The book also demonstrates how it was exploited after the event. After the theft, the painting was returned to the Louvre. Humorous and satirical images and stories about what happened emerged. Subsequently, the parodies waned, and instead, many claimed worldwide that they possessed the original.

The forgeries amounted to thousands, and the painting that was returned to the Louvre is also not considered authentic. These consequences are natural scenarios, as almost everyone wishes to possess invaluable treasures. Novels, crime novels, and children’s stories are also being developed that address the theft of the painting. The chapter in the book that describes the history of the theft constitutes one of the most fascinating parts.

At the end of the book, it explores the globalization of painting. It also discusses the life of the Mona Lisa as a pop star. This is a fascinating journey. I have often heard the name Mona Lisa mentioned in many song lyrics. The name is just as well known to the author. He highlights songs by Cole Porter, Elton John, and Carola’s fantastic contribution to the Eurovision Song Contest (1983), among others.

It is clear that the Mona Lisa has become a symbol that adorns advertisements and products. This is something that almost everyone has likely noticed. Many pages in the book are devoted to her influence. Moreover, both Donald and many others recognize this. The Mona Lisa was exhibited in Washington and New York in 1963. I also see that it was not just a cultural event. It happened again in Japan in 1974. It was also a fantastic opportunity to strengthen the political relations between the countries.

The author’s conclusion is clear. He cannot confirm whether it is indeed Lisa Gherardini who has been portrayed. This is based on the limited evidence. He also cannot answer the 19th-century mystery surrounding the enigmatic smile. I will now conclude my meeting, and thus also the post. As Carola says, ”Just as Mona Lisa has her smile, so do you hide a secret.”

Björn Blomqvist 2011-03-08

Photo: I took this photograph during my visit to the Louvre.