Novel 2-pyrone synthesis via Michael addition of mandelic acid enolate to trans-1,2-diaroylethenes

4-Aroyl-6-aryl-3-phenyl-2-pyrones are prepared in a three-step procedure involving the Michael addition of a cis-2,5-disubstituted-1,3-dioxolan-4-one, derived from mandelic acid, to trans-1,2-diaroylethenes, cyclisation to a furan under acidic conditions and lactonisation. The 2-pyrones can be also obtained directly from the Michael products under prolonged or strong acidic treatment with little decrease in yield.