By Celeste Arkwright /
Feb, 22 2025
Ever wondered why the Mona Lisa’s smile is so subtle, or why other historical portraits feature such serious faces? This article breaks down the cultural, social, and technical reasons people rarely flashed a toothy grin in historical portraits. From the lengthy sittings required by artists, to the social status conveyed by a composed demeanor, discover why our ancestors kept it serious. Explore fun anecdotes and quirky historical tidbits that shed light on this curious aspect of art.
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