"Unveiling the Hidden Secrets of the 'Mona Lisa': Scientists Make Startling Discovery"

1 min read
Source: HuffPost
"Unveiling the Hidden Secrets of the 'Mona Lisa': Scientists Make Startling Discovery"
Photo: HuffPost
TL;DR Summary

Scientists have used X-rays to analyze a tiny speck of the "Mona Lisa" and discovered a rare compound, plumbonacrite, in Leonardo da Vinci's base layer of paint. This finding confirms that Leonardo likely used lead oxide powder to thicken and dry his paint, providing new insight into his experimental painting techniques. The research sheds light on the distinctive chemical signature of the "Mona Lisa" and highlights Leonardo's spirit of constant experimentation as a painter. The discovery is considered significant for the art world and offers further opportunities for uncovering secrets in Leonardo's works.

Share this article

Reading Insights

Total Reads

1

Unique Readers

3

Time Saved

3 min

vs 4 min read

Condensed

86%

65293 words

Want the full story? Read the original article

Read on HuffPost