David

David proves to be a piece unlike most of Donatello’s works for the numerous references and borrowings from classical models. Donatello’s use of classical antecedents in the work David, conveys more so then a sculpture, it provides a look into the past and into the feelings and struggle that took place in battle that epic day. Most people concur that David was created in the classical style, but are quick to disagree as to the date of its production. Most scholars will agree though, that it was most likely produced around the 1440’s. This took the giant by surprise as it ended up dinting his brow deeply. 3 David stands on a circular platform, a type of garnished pedestal with one foot on Goliath’s severed helmeted head looking smooth and polished.

Donatello was one of the most important fifteenth century artists whose bronze David appears to be an enigma as it is completely unlike his other works in its unusual style, and classical time of origin. Most of his weight appears to be situated on his back leg allowing the other to look slender and sleek, a style attributable to that of a much earlier period. The major distinction with Greek art was that it was extremely narrative; in accordance is the sculpture of David. This is conveyed in the sculpture as he is nude wearing all but a hat and shoes, in opposition to Goliath who was heavily clad in armor.