During the 16th century, oil painting became the dominant medium in Europe and was used by many of the great masters of the time, including Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, and Rembrandt. The technique of oil painting had been developed in the 15th century by the van Eyck brothers, Jan and Hubert, and their innovations in the medium allowed artists to create more realistic and lifelike paintings.

During the 16th century, oil painting was used to create a wide range of works, including religious paintings, portraits, landscapes, and still lifes. Many of the great masters of the time were skilled in the use of oil paint, and their works are still admired and studied today for their technical mastery and artistic achievement.

One of the most famous oil paintings from the 16th century is the “Mona Lisa,” painted by Leonardo da Vinci around 1503-1506. The painting is known for its enigmatic smile and the masterful use of light and shadow to create a sense of depth and realism.

Other notable oil paintings from the 16th century include Raphael’s “The School of Athens,” Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch,” and Titian’s “The Assumption of the Virgin.” These paintings demonstrate the versatility and expressive potential of oil paint and are considered some of the greatest works of art in the history of oil painting.