Michelangelo's David
Michelangelo's David is a masterpiece of Renaissance sculpture, created between 1501 and 1504. Carved from a single block of Carrara marble, it depicts the biblical hero David before his battle with Goliath. The statue stands at an imposing 5.17 meters (17 feet) and is renowned for its anatomical accuracy, emotional intensity, and idealized beauty, representing the Florentine Republic's strength and independence.
The Artist: Michelangelo Buonarroti
Michelangelo (1475-1564) was an Italian sculptor, painter, architect, and poet of the High Renaissance. Considered one of the greatest artists of all time, his works such as the David and the Sistine Chapel ceiling have had an unparalleled influence on Western art.
Historical Context
Commissioned by the Opera del Duomo of Florence Cathedral, David was originally intended for a buttress of the cathedral. However, its exceptional quality led to its placement in the Piazza della Signoria, in front of the Palazzo Vecchio, the seat of Florentine government. It quickly became a symbol of the city's civic pride and defiance.
Artistic Significance
David embodies the Renaissance ideals of humanism, perfection, and the revival of classical antiquity. Michelangelo's profound understanding of human anatomy is evident in the intricate musculature and posture, conveying a sense of potential energy and psychological depth. The sculpture's contrapposto stance and intense gaze have made it an enduring symbol of beauty, power, and courage.
- Materials: Carrara Marble
- Dimensions: 5.17 meters (17 ft) height
- Period: High Renaissance
- Location: Galleria dell'Accademia, Florence