The Mona Lisa (1503-06), known to Italians as La Gioconda, is not only one of the great masterpieces of High Renaissance painting but also the best example of portrait art. It´s composition and the atmospheric illusionism were new features at the time.
Not only has an aura of mystery that arises from an enigmatic half-smile and her gaze pointed to the right of the observer. It also projects a great serenity through various factors. First, the muted color scheme. Second, the peaceful sfumato tonality, Leonardo's own technique. And third, the composition created by the pyramid-shaped pose. Mona Lisa´s posture is inspired by the pyramid image used to represent a sitting Madonna.