Mona Lisa. La Gioconda. La Joconde. While some may debate its rightful name, few would question that Da Vinci’s masterpiece is today the most famous painting in the world, although quite why or how it has acquired its iconic status is far less clear. Perhaps it is because so few genuine da Vinci paintings (perhaps 15) survive today. Perhaps it is because the Mona Lisa displays a technical mastery and daring composition that few, if any, have ever surpassed.
Or maybe the answer lies in the fact that almost everything about the painting is shrouded in obscurity.
The Paris catacombs The Paris catacombs are a 300 km (186 mile) network of subterranean tunnels and rooms stretching under Paris...
Heists and cons The central plot of The Gilded Seal is constructed around and inspired by three real life crimes - the theft of the Mona Lisa in 1911, the theft of the Madonna of the Yarnwinder and a notorious New York international art forgery scam
The Napoleon Death Mask As was customary upon the passing of a great leader, a death mask or mould of Napoleon's face was made...
Photo Gallery See photographs of some of the key buildings and places that feature in The Gilded Seal.
Further reading A useful bibliography for those who want to know more ...
Useful Links Does exactly what it says on the tin.
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