Best books about the Mona Lisa

The Mona Lisa, Leonardo da Vinci’s enigmatic masterpiece, has captivated audiences for centuries. Its allure has inspired numerous authors to explore its mysteries, resulting in a plethora of best-selling books that delve into the painting’s history, the life of its subject, and its cultural impact. Below is a curated list of some of the most acclaimed books about the Mona Lisa, along with insights into their authors.​

1. Mona Lisa: A Life Discovered by Dianne Hales

Dianne Hales, an award-winning journalist and author, embarks on a journey to uncover the life of Lisa Gherardini, the woman believed to be the subject of the Mona Lisa. In this meticulously researched biography, Hales combines history, travelogue, and personal narrative to bring Lisa’s world to life, exploring Renaissance Florence and the circumstances that led to her immortalization by da Vinci. Hales’s passion for Italian culture is evident, and her previous work, La Bella Lingua, showcases her deep appreciation for Italy’s language and heritage.​

2. Leonardo and the Mona Lisa Story: The History of a Painting Told in Pictures by Donald Sassoon

Donald Sassoon, a professor of comparative European history at the University of London, offers a visually rich account of the Mona Lisa’s journey through history. This book presents a pictorial narrative, tracing the painting’s creation, its theft in 1911, and its rise to iconic status. Sassoon’s expertise provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of the artwork’s significance and the factors contributing to its enduring fame .​

3. The Mona Lisa Vanishes: A Legendary Painter, a Shocking Heist, and the Birth of a Global Celebrity by Nicholas Day

Aimed at younger readers, Nicholas Day’s engaging narrative recounts the dramatic theft of the Mona Lisa from the Louvre in 1911. Through a blend of humor and suspense, Day explores how the heist transformed the painting into a global sensation. The book is complemented by illustrations from Brett Helquist, known for his work on A Series of Unfortunate Events, making it an accessible and entertaining read for middle-grade audiences .​

4. I, Mona Lisa by Natasha Solomons

In this imaginative novel, Natasha Solomons gives voice to the Mona Lisa herself, weaving a tale that spans over 500 years. The painting narrates its own story, reflecting on the events and figures it has witnessed, from Leonardo da Vinci to modern times. Solomons’s lyrical prose offers a unique perspective on art, history, and the enduring power of a single image

5. El secreto de Mona Lisa by Jeanne Kalogridis

Jeanne Kalogridis delves into the life of Lisa Gherardini in this historical novel set against the backdrop of 15th-century Florence. The story intertwines political intrigue, personal secrets, and the complexities of Renaissance society, painting a vivid portrait of the woman behind the famous smile. Kalogridis’s rich storytelling immerses readers in a world of art, power, and mystery .​

6. The Smile by Donna Jo Napoli

Aimed at young adult readers, Donna Jo Napoli’s The Smile explores the life of Lisa Gherardini, offering a fictionalized account of her experiences in Renaissance Florence. The novel delves into her relationships, societal expectations, and the circumstances that led to her portrait by Leonardo da Vinci. Napoli’s narrative provides a poignant look at a young woman’s life during a transformative period in history .​

7. Mona Lisa: Inside the Painting by Jean-Pierre Mohen, Michel Menu, and Bruno Mottin

This collaborative work by art historians and scientists offers an in-depth analysis of the Mona Lisa using advanced imaging techniques. The authors examine the painting’s composition, materials, and the methods employed by da Vinci, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the artwork’s intricacies and the genius behind it .​

8. The Mona Lisa Myth by Jean-Pierre Isbouts and Christopher Heath Brown

Jean-Pierre Isbouts and Christopher Heath Brown explore the theory that Leonardo da Vinci painted two versions of the Mona Lisa. Their research delves into the existence of the Isleworth Mona Lisa, proposing that it may be an earlier rendition of the famous portrait. The book challenges conventional beliefs and invites readers to reconsider the history of one of the world’s most renowned paintings .​Wikipedia

9. Math and the Mona Lisa: The Art and Science of Leonardo da Vinci by Bülent Atalay

Bülent Atalay, a physicist and artist, examines the intersection of art and science in Leonardo da Vinci’s work. This book explores how mathematical principles influenced da Vinci’s artistic creations, including the Mona Lisa. Atalay’s interdisciplinary approach offers readers a unique perspective on the harmony between scientific inquiry and artistic expression .​Wikipedia

These works collectively offer a multifaceted exploration of the Mona Lisa, each shedding light on different aspects of the painting’s history, significance, and the woman behind the enigmatic smile. Whether through historical analysis, scientific examination, or imaginative storytelling, these authors contribute to our understanding and appreciation of Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece.