Reflexión

The idea that two distinct
elements are combined in
Mona Lisa's smile is one
that has struck several
critics. They accordingly
find in the beautiful
Florentine's expression the
most perfect representation
of the contrasts that
dominate the erotic life of
women; the contrast
between reserve and
seduction, and between the
most devoted tenderness
and a sensuality that is
ruthlessly demanding—
consuming men as if they
were alien beings.
—SIGMUND FREUD, LEONARDO
DA VINCI AND A MEMORY OF
HIS CHILDHOOD, TRANSLATED
BY ALAN TYSON