Leonardo Da Vinci, Mona Lisa, ca 1503-1505,
Oil on wood. Musee du Louvre, Paris 

Leonardo's Mona Lisa is probably the world's most famous portrait. I really like the realistic qualities in this painting. Leonardo gives her a gentle grin, rather the the normal serious, emotionless face in many other portraits. I also like that there is little symbolism in this painting. Mona Lisa is a convincing representation of an individual. It does not serve solely as an icon of status. She does not wear fancy robes and expensive jewels. Leonardo's portrait of this self'assured woman without exposing great wealth or a higher power, is truly quite remarkable.