Who painted the "Mona Lisa"?

The "Mona Lisa" was painted by Leonardo da Vinci, a renowned Italian artist of the Renaissance period. This iconic work, characterized by its artistic innovation, exquisite detail, and enigmatic expression, embodies many principles of Renaissance art, including a deep understanding of human anatomy, a mastery of sfumato (the technique of softening transitions between colors), and the use of atmospheric perspective.

Leonardo's unique approach to portraying the subject, particularly the subtle gradations of light and shadow, contributes to the painting's lifelike quality. The "Mona Lisa" is considered a groundbreaking piece in the history of art, reflecting Leonardo’s genius not only in portraiture but also in his understanding of psychology through facial expression. This combination of technical skill and emotional depth has secured the painting's prominence in Western art history.