Scientists pry new secrets from Leonardo’s Mona Lisa

Scientists have used x-rays to examine the chemical structure of Leonardo’s Mona Lisa (AP Photo/Christophe Ena, File)

Scientists have pried another secret from the Mona Lisa that shines a light on the techniques used by Leonardo to create her exquisitely enigmatic smile.

Using X-rays to peer into the chemical structure of a speck of the celebrated work of art, scientists suggest that the Italian Renaissance master may have been in a particularly experimental mood when he set to work on the Mona Lisa early in the 16th century.