The Fame of the Mona Lisa

Introduction

• Discussion on the cynic's perspective regarding the Mona Lisa's fame.
• Contrast with Da Vinci's other work, Lady with Ermine.

Reasons for the Mona Lisa's Fame

• Visitor Statistics:
  • 80% of Louvre visitors come to see the Mona Lisa.
• Artistic Value:
  • Questioning if it's significantly better than other paintings.

The Role of Walter Pater

• Key Work: Pater's 1873 book, The Renaissance
  • Defined the Mona Lisa for Victorian audiences.
  • The significance of written word in art appreciation.
• Pater's Description:
  • Epic prose highlighting Mona Lisa's allure:
    • “The animalism of Greece”
    • “She is older than the rocks among which she sits.”
    • “Like the vampire, she has been dead many times.”
  • Praised by Oscar Wilde for its musical quality.

Evolution of Recognition

• Initially, Mona Lisa was only art world famous.
• 1907 Incident:
  • A vandal targeted Ingres's painting, not Da Vinci's.
• 1910 Context:
  • At that time, Mona was seen as the second most famous painting in the Louvre.

The Theft of the Mona Lisa

• Theft Events:
  • August 21, 1911: Vincenzo Peruggia stole the painting.
  • Took two years for recovery; media frenzy ensued.
• Media Coverage:
  • Descriptions of Mona's smile driving the thief mad.
  • Articles speculated on her whereabouts, generating public intrigue.

Impact of the Theft

• Mona Lisa became a cultural icon due to her absence.
• The media built her reputation during the theft period.
• Return:
  • After her recovery, she gained even more fame.
  • Significant media attention; became a story, a legend.

Cultural Significance

• Attracted attention from various sectors, including politicians.
• Final Interpretation:
  • Mona Lisa as a canvas for critics and audiences to project meanings and mysteries onto her.

Conclusion

• A description from 1909 reflecting on Mona Lisa's ability to provoke debate even among skeptics.
• The ongoing discussions about her beauty and significance continue today.