Scientists hope to exhume the remains of Leonardo da Vinci so they can reconstruct his face to discover whether the Mona Lisa is a disguised self-portrait.

Scientists and historians from Italy’s National Committee for Cultural Heritage have sought permission to open the artist’s tomb at Amboise Castle in the Loire valley.

While the identity of the Mona Lisa has been debated for centuries, some scholars have suggested that da Vinci may have painted himself as a woman in the masterpiece due to his love of riddles.

Experts believe that if they find the Renaissance painter’s skull, they can recreate his face and compare it to the Mona Lisa.

The Italian research team said talks about the exhumation with French cultural officials and the owners of the chateau have resulted in an agreement in principle.

The project could receive formal permission this summer.

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