The art of going first

Wikipedia estimates that in 2020 the Mona Lisa is worth 860 million US dollars.

On Amazon I can get an oil painting Mona Lisa replica for 17 US dollars.

What’s that all about?

The art of going first!

When Leonardo stepped up to the easel the Mona Lisa had never been done before.

He was most likely filled with doubt, uncertainty and no idea if this painting was going to sell or not.

On the other hand the replica maker could happily paint away knowing this was the most popular painting in the world.

Da Vinci wrestled with what paints to put where, what to include in the background and how to pull off a mysterious smile.

Today’s painter doesn’t have to struggle with that, Da Vinci left a blueprint and if that isn’t sufficient they can always watch an instructional YouTube video or use a paint by numbers.

$860million v $17 is the difference between blazing a trail and following a map.