As I concluded the Isaacson biography of Da Vinci he referred to the Mona Lisa as “Da Vinci’s pièce de résistance”. A term many are familiar with, but one I had never considered. The words are literally a piece of resistance.

This term – synonymous with the greatest work created by a group or the highlight of someone’s work – highlights the struggle that is present in creating.

Great work requires struggle and perseverance.

This sees very present in Da Vinci’s work. He left so much unfinished, yet Mona Lisa is one of his few finished products.

If Da Vinci hadn’t persevered, he wouldn’t have created his pièce de résistance.

P.s. If a french speaker would like to correct my translation, I appreciate that but I think the point is still valid.