Artwork
Mona Lisa
Mona Lisa is a print by Urbain Massard. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
This print reproduces Leonardo da Vinci's famous portrait, known as the Mona Lisa. Created by Urbain Massard, it is a black-and-white representation on paper.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a seated woman with her hands folded, wearing a dark dress and a light collar, set against a faint landscape of mountains and a winding road. The subject is believed to be Lisa del Giocondo, the wife of a merchant.
Technique & Style
Massard's print was made by tracing the original lines of da Vinci's painting, resulting in a faithful reproduction. The technique captures the subtleties of the original composition.
History & Provenance
The original painting is housed in the Louvre, but a version is also held at the Victoria and Albert Museum, suggesting multiple iterations of the work exist.
Artist & collection
Artist
Urbain Massard spent his days cranking out copies of old masters in a cramped Paris print-shop, ink-stained fingers and all.
