Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci

This painting, begun in 1503 for the home of a wealthy Florentine family, was not finished until 1519. The subject, for which it is named, is Lisa del Giocondo, the lady of the house. It is interpreted by most as a study of the complexities of femininity and feminine beauty beyond the superficialities of youthfulness. Whether or not this was da Vinci's intent, for at least the last 150 years, the Mona Lisa has been viewed and studied and appreciated by millions and now sits on display at the Louvre in Paris.