Art History

November 29, 2024

The Incredible Story of How the Mona Lisa’s Theft Transformed It From Artwork to Icon

There are few artworks that have risen to the same level of fame and recognition as Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa (ca. 1503-1506). More than 10 million people view the Mona Lisa every year at the Louvre, making it the most visited painting in the world. Less known is that the beloved painting has also been subject to one of the most publicized art thefts in history.

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November 21, 2024

New Research Reveals Vincent van Gogh’s Famous Blue ‘Irises’ Were Originally Purple

The painting Irises is one of Vincent van Gogh's most well-known works of art. The deceptively simple piece has captivated academics and the general public for centuries, particularly for the way the blue flowers evoke a calming, reflective feeling. However, it turns out that these flowers weren't always blue. New research at the Getty Museum has revealed that these world-famous blooms were actually purple when they were conceived and painted by the Dutch artist.

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October 5, 2024

Exhibition Sheds Light on Leonardo da Vinci’s Perfume Passion

Experiencing the past through art is a common pastime. Millions of visitors flock to the world's top museums each year, observing paintings and sculptures that embody the experiences of their creators across time. A painting or sculpture is a visual medium, and Leonardo da Vinci excelled in this area. The Renaissance genius‘s visual masterpieces have awed and inspired for generations. However, few know that da Vinci was also a connoisseur of smell.

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My Modern Met

Celebrating creativity and promoting a positive culture by spotlighting the best sides of humanity—from the lighthearted and fun to the thought-provoking and enlightening.