Classic masterpieces:
* Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci: This enigmatic portrait is instantly recognizable and has been the subject of countless interpretations and analyses.
* The Starry Night by Vincent van Gogh: This swirling, vibrant depiction of the night sky is a masterpiece of Post-Impressionism and evokes a sense of wonder and emotion.
* Girl with a Pearl Earring by Johannes Vermeer: This mesmerizing portrait is famous for its intricate details, use of light, and the mysterious gaze of the subject.
* The Scream by Edvard Munch: This iconic image, depicting a figure in anguish against a swirling background, is a powerful and disturbing expression of existentialism.
* Guernica by Pablo Picasso: This monumental black-and-white painting is a powerful anti-war statement, inspired by the bombing of the Basque town of Guernica during the Spanish Civil War.
Other notable paintings:
* Water Lilies series by Claude Monet: These Impressionist paintings depict the serene beauty of water lilies and capture the effects of light and water.
* The Persistence of Memory by Salvador Dali: This surrealist masterpiece features melting clocks and other bizarre imagery, exploring themes of time and memory.
* American Gothic by Grant Wood: This iconic image of a farmer and his wife in their austere home is a powerful representation of rural America.
* Campbell's Soup Cans by Andy Warhol: This pop art masterpiece marked a turning point in art history, challenging the traditional definition of fine art.
* The Birth of Venus by Sandro Botticelli: This Renaissance masterpiece depicts the goddess Venus emerging from a giant scallop shell, a symbol of beauty and rebirth.
Factors that contribute to a painting's fame:
* Historical significance: The painting's connection to major events or figures.
* Artistic innovation: The painting's groundbreaking style or technique.
* Cultural impact: The painting's influence on art, literature, or popular culture.
* Popularity: The painting's widespread recognition and appeal.
It's important to note that this is just a small sample of the many famous paintings in the world. Each individual has their own preferences, and there are countless other masterpieces that deserve recognition.