Mysterious Names of the Mona Lisa: A Comprehensive Guide

The Mona Lisa, one of the most famous paintings in the world, carries several names that have fascinated art historians, scholars, and enthusiasts for centuries. These names not only add to its mystique but also reflect the history and cultural significance of the artwork. Let's delve into the various names by which the Mona Lisa is known.

The Titles of the Mona Lisa

The most well-known title by which the painting is recognized, worldwide, is The Mona Lisa. In the United States, you might hear a variation of this name as Monna Lisa, although the spelling Mona is more common and widely accepted. In France, the painting is known as La Joconde. Meanwhile, in Italy, it is referred to as La Gioconda. These names reflect the cultural and linguistic nuances of different regions, showcasing the painting's universal appeal.

The Historical Origin of Names

The roots of these names trace back to Giorgio Vasari, an Italian painter and historian, who, in his Life of Leonardo da Vinci, written in the mid-sixteenth century, attributed the name Mona Lisa to the painting. Vasari, however, was not an eyewitness, and his account was based on fragmentary legends and hearsay, making the truth slightly elusive.

The Italian Name: La Gioconda

In the Italian language, the painting is called La Gioconda. This name holds a special significance as it refers to the formal married name of the subject, Lisa Gherardini. 'Mona' is a contraction of the medieval Italian phrase ' Madonna', meaning ' Lady'. However, in some areas of Italy, the spelling 'Monna' is used to avoid the slightly vulgar connotations of 'Mona', making 'La Gioconda' the preferred term.

The French Name: La Joconde

When the painting reached France, it adopted the name La Joconde. This name is believed to have come from the Italian name, adapted to French orthography. Interestingly, the name La Jaconde is also sometimes used as a variation in certain parts of France.

Historical Controversies and Rumors

Two prevalent hypotheses have been proposed regarding the identity of the Mona Lisa. Some historians believe the painting is a portrait of Madame Lisa Gioconda, the wife of a wealthy Florentine patron named Francesco del Giocondo. However, there are also rumors suggesting that the painting might be a portrait of Leonardo da Vinci himself, painted in the guise of a female subject due to the artist's homosexual inclinations.

Artistic and Historical Significance

It is also speculated that the painting was never completed in Leonardo's time and was eventually sold to royalty. Over the centuries, the Mona Lisa has been a subject of numerous theories, controversies, and captivated the interest of art lovers, historians, and the general public alike.

The painting's diverse names and the stories behind them not only highlight its cultural impact but also demonstrate the enduring fascination with artistic legacies. Whether known as The Mona Lisa, La Gioconda, or La Joconde, it remains one of the most celebrated and analyzed works in the history of art.

References: Mona Lisa - Wikipedia