Mona Lisa fragile but in good hands

The Mona Lisa, Leonardo da Vinci’s 16th century masterpiece, is in fragile condition but should not suffer too much damage if taken care of properly, experts who studied the painting closely said Tuesday.

Scientists from Canada’s National Research Council used special three-dimensional technology to examine both sides of the masterpiece, which was painted at some stage between 1503 and 1506 and now sits in the Louvre museum in Paris.

“The wood panel on which the Mona Lisa is painted is sensitive to temperature and climate variations. However, if its current storage conditions are maintained, there is no risk of degradation,” the council said in a statement.

The council had promised to reveal important details about Leonardo’s so-called “sfumato” technique, which the artist used to create a hazy effect. But the statement said more study would be needed first.