The Theory of a Second Mona Lisa
Few paintings in history have sparked as much fascination and mystery as Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa. With her enigmatic smile and captivating gaze, she has intrigued art lovers and scholars for centuries. However, a compelling question has persisted in the art world: Did Leonardo da Vinci paint two versions of the Mona Lisa?
The Traditional Mona Lisa
The universally recognized Mona Lisa, housed in the Louvre Museum in Paris, is widely accepted as the definitive masterpiece of Leonardo da Vinci. This painting, believed to have been created between 1503 and 1506, is thought to be a portrait of Lisa Gherardini, the wife of Florentine merchant Francesco del Giocondo. This association is why the painting is also called La Gioconda.
With its mastery of sfumato, a technique where colors and tones blend seamlessly, the painting exhibits an almost ethereal quality. But while this version of the Mona Lisa is undoubtedly the most famous, evidence suggests that Leonardo may have painted another.
The Theory of a Second Mona Lisa
Several researchers, historians, and art enthusiasts argue that Leonardo painted an earlier version of the Mona Lisa, often referred to as the “Isleworth Mona Lisa” or the “First Mona Lisa.” According to this theory, the first version was created several years before the Louvre painting and depicts a younger Lisa Gherardini.
Historical Accounts
Some historical records support the idea of a second Mona Lisa. The most significant piece of evidence comes from Giorgio Vasari, a 16th-century artist and biographer of Leonardo da Vinci. In his book Lives of the Most Excellent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects, Vasari describes the Mona Lisa in detail, but his description does not entirely match the Louvre version. This has led some scholars to speculate that Vasari was referring to a different portrait.
Additionally, Antonio de Beatis, secretary to Cardinal Luigi d’Aragona, wrote in his travel notes in 1517 that he saw a painting by Leonardo featuring a woman similar to the Mona Lisa, yet distinct in its execution. Some have taken this as further proof that Leonardo painted multiple versions.
The Isleworth Mona Lisa
The “Isleworth Mona Lisa” emerged in the early 20th century when English art collector Hugh Blaker discovered it in a manor house in Somerset, England. Unlike the Louvre’s Mona Lisa, this version features a younger woman with a wider landscape background.
Supporters of the second Mona Lisa theory argue that the composition, technique, and execution align with Leonardo’s known works. Scientific analyses, such as carbon dating and expert examinations, suggest the painting could have originated in Leonardo’s time. However, skeptics argue that the Isleworth painting lacks the depth and complexity characteristic of Leonardo’s work.
Why Would Leonardo Have Painted Two Versions?
If Leonardo did indeed paint two versions, what could have motivated him? There are several possible explanations:
- A Commissioned Portrait – Some historians believe that Leonardo was initially commissioned to paint Lisa Gherardini but left the work unfinished, only to revisit the subject years later with a different approach.
- Artistic Experimentation – Leonardo was known for his relentless pursuit of perfection. He might have created an earlier version but was dissatisfied and later developed the Louvre painting to better reflect his evolving techniques.
- Patronage Differences – It is possible that different patrons commissioned each painting, leading Leonardo to create two separate but related portraits.
Skepticism and Debate
While proponents of the second Mona Lisa theory present compelling arguments, many art historians remain skeptical. The lack of definitive documentation linking Leonardo to the Isleworth painting remains a significant obstacle. Furthermore, some experts believe that the painting was created by a skilled follower or workshop assistant rather than Leonardo himself.
Public Perception and Cultural Impact
The possibility of a second Mona Lisa has captivated the public and inspired numerous debates in art circles. Documentaries, books, and exhibitions have explored the mystery, fueling interest in Leonardo’s artistic process and the enigmatic nature of the Mona Lisa.
Some enthusiasts firmly believe in the existence of two versions, pointing to scientific analysis and historical references. Others argue that Leonardo’s meticulous nature makes it unlikely that he would have painted a second version without clear records.
Did Leonardo da Vinci paint two Mona Lisas? The question remains open to interpretation. While evidence supporting a second version exists, definitive proof is elusive. Until new discoveries emerge, the mystery of the Mona Lisa, or Mona Lisas, will continue to enchant art lovers worldwide.
Regardless of the answer, one thing is certain: Leonardo da Vinci’s work remains as mesmerizing and enigmatic as ever, ensuring that the debate over the Mona Lisa’s origins will persist for generations to come.
