Who is Mona Lisa and why is she smiling that small but intriguing smile? Another art critic notes, "The treatment of the mouth, upturned at the ends, makes the subject seem quizzical and curious. Legend has it that Leonardo had musicians present at all times to sustain the peculiar mood of his subject" (Kent, 1939, p. 24). Many artistic techniques make up the Mona Lisa, and it is perhaps the best representation of sfumato available today. Sfumato uses many layers of translucent color to create form and depth in a work, and Da Vinci used this technique in the Mona Lisa, especially around the eyes and mouth. Many people believe it is the sfumato that gives the illusion of a smile around her mouth. The perspective of the piece is enhanced by the pastoral background that gives a clue to her life and her situation. She is a beautiful but mysterious figure, and Da Vinci creates her bathed in shadow and light to subtly indicate her mystery. She is elegant, serene, and seems to represent the perfect woman in Renaissance times. Her slight smile symbolizes there is more to her than just a pretty face, but her serene expression seems to show that she is completely comfortable in her surroundings and life. The painting's small size surprises many viewers, and yet, the woman seems larger than life, even though she is actually smaller than life. The colors of the painting are muted and subdued, which was common at the time. It is clear...

While Mona Lisa is clothed, the shape of her body is well formed and realistic, as are her detailed hands and facial features, and the David is a representation of an ideal man in every way. Both figures incorporate natural gesture, as well. David casually reaches for his slingshot, while Mona Lisa holds her hands gently folded in her lap. The message and allegory is clear in both cases. Mona Lisa is represented as secure and completely at home in her surroundings, while David is represented as beginning to take charge of his. Both men incorporated the natural world in their works, (a realistic log stands behind one of David's legs at the rear of the statue), which makes the pieces more realistic.
In conclusion, Da Vinci and Michelangelo are known as two of the world's greatest artists for many compelling reasons, as these two works clearly indicate. Both works are unique, memorable, and extremely beautiful to view. They were both created at the height of the Renaissance, when art and learning were reaching a peak in Europe, and people appreciated fine works of art. They show great ingenuity, technique, style, and symbolism, and combine the best elements of art to remain memorable to the viewer.