The Mona Lisa, also known as La Gioconda, is perhaps one of the most recognized paintings in the world. It is a portrait of a woman, believed to be Lisa Gherardini, the wife of Florentine merchant Francesco del Giocondo. The Mona Lisa is famous for its enigmatic smile and Leonardo's masterful use of sfumato, a technique that creates a soft, hazy effect by gradually blending colors and tones.
2. Starry Night by Vincent van Gogh (1889)
Starry Night is one of the most renowned works of Dutch post-impressionist painter Vincent van Gogh. The painting depicts a view from the east-facing window of his asylum room at Saint-Paul-de-Mausole in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. Starry Night is known for its vibrant colors and swirling, expressive brushstrokes.
3. The Sistine Madonna by Raphael (1513-1514)
The Sistine Madonna is a Renaissance oil painting by Italian artist Raphael. It depicts the Blessed Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus and surrounded by two angels. The painting was commissioned for the Church of San Sisto in Piacenza, Italy.
4. The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci (1495-1498)
The Last Supper is a fresco painting by Leonardo da Vinci depicting the final meal of Jesus with his disciples. It is located in the refectory (dining hall) of the Convent of Santa Maria delle Grazie in Milan, Italy. The painting is famous for its lifelike depiction of the disciples' reactions to Jesus' announcement that he will be betrayed.
5. Guernica by Pablo Picasso (1937)
Guernica is a large anti-war painting by Spanish artist Pablo Picasso. It was created in 1937 in response to the bombing of the Basque town of Guernica during the Spanish Civil War. The painting is known for its bold, expressive style and its powerful anti-war message.