The Mona Lisa painting was created during the Italian Renaissance period, specifically in the early 16th century. Leonardo da Vinci began painting it around 1503 and likely worked on it intermittently until about 1506, with some experts suggesting he may have refined it as late as 1516 or 1517. This period, known as the Renaissance, was characterized by a revival of classical antiquity, humanistic ideals, and artistic innovation in Europe, particularly in Italy where Florence was a cultural hub.
