I saw an interesting news headline on Facebook this morning:
They linked a CNN story named, “ ‘Mona Lisa’: Hidden portraits ‘found underneath’ ” which I promptly read. Given that we’re talking about a painting, it’s not unreasonable to expect an image, right? I want to see! All CNN gives us is a description.
The hidden picture shows a woman looking into the distance, with no trace of the characteristic smile. Cotte believes he has discovered the genuine portrait of Lisa del Giocondo, also known as Lisa Gherardini, the wife of a Florentine merchant.
When reporting on a purely visual item, like a painting, I expect a photo. If that’s not possible, it’s not unreasonable to expect an explanation. Simply saying that the investigators haven’t yet released an image would be sufficient. Come on, CNN!
Despite the disappointing reporting, this is so interesting. There’s another painting under the Mona Lisa, or perhaps an earlier revision? It’s been there, and unknown, for five-hundred years. Of course I want to see it now!
Image capture from Facebook.com
Claire Poulin
I wanna see too.. What a let down.