Charlotte Foster
Art

Mona Lisa voted the greatest artwork of all time

The Mona Lisa has been voted the greatest artwork of all time in an extensive poll of British art enthusiasts. 

The survey found that the majority of Brits still consider the classics to be the greatest works of art, and that two thirds consider themselves “art lovers”. 

Leonardo da Vinci's masterpiece has been hailed the country's favourite piece of art, with 34 percent of Brits voting it number one.

The Mona Lisa is widely regarded as the most iconic artwork, with millions travelling to the Louvre each year to see her elusive smile. 

Vincent Van Gough's Sunflowers was not far behind in second place, with the painting getting 32 percent of the vote.

Painted in Arles, in the south of France, in 1888 and 1889, the series consists of five large canvases with sunflowers in a vase.

Painted in Arles in the south of France in 1888 and 1889, the series consists of five large canvases with sunflowers in a vase, with it being said that the sunflower paintings had a special significance for Van Gogh, communicating gratitude.

Third on the list of the most admired works of art was the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.

With six million visitors flocking to the Vatican every year to gaze at its beauty, the ceiling was painted in fresco by Michelangelo between 1508 and 1512, and is considered a cornerstone work of High Renaissance art.

Other great works on the list included Antony Gormley's The Angel of the NorthBalloon Girl by Banksy, Edward Munch’s The Scream, and The Kiss by Gustav Klimt. 

Image credits: Getty Images

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art, Mona Lisa, greatest, artworks, poll