What is a masterpiece?

Question

What is a masterpiece?

Answer 1

It is a relative term. A masterpiece to me might not be a masterpiece to you. Although, some works, because of size, technique, or shock value have become known as masterpieces.

Answer 2

When the painting is revolutionary, sets new standards, influences, or executes something beautiful with an unconventional technique.

Also if theres a lot of controversy...or opposite extremes of opinion. FOr eg. Jackson Pollock

Much controversy can come hand in hand with the promiment recognition the work achieved.

But masterpiece, as in traditionally...and to me also, that is the  perfectly executed painting (skillwise), but there's something more to the painting.The artist has taken it to another level beyond their skill. And most often, has made it look very easy when in fact it's the complete opposite.

Yup, like with sport champions etc, a way to get an idea of how great the person is how easy they make look something that is in fact beyond many people, and other professionals. And most importantly, they execute it with eloquency and personal style.