Before and After

To conclude, even though the two sculptures are representing the same person, they are undoubtedly different in interpretation. All in all, Michelangelo’s “David” looks as if he is awaiting something (most likely peril), while Donatello’s “David” comes across as calm and satisfied. He also appears self-assured in his facial expression, though his contracted-looking muscles indicate tension. With knowledge of the biblical tale, the assumption can be made that the decapitated head is in fact the head of Goliath and the sword is the one David used to sever the head. Although the muscle tension and expression in his David are valuable in drawing this deduction, it is the sling over David’s shoulder that finally brings Michelangelo’s piece to comprehension. The blade also appears to be pointing to an object resembling a human head on top of which David is placing his foot. Though both characters have a frontward gaze that entails movement, their expressions are vastly different. Ultimately, Donatello in his statue appears to be portraying David as he is described in the Bible, while Michelangelo’s sculpture is a more idealized and “pumped-up” version of the young shepherd. However, both images are unquestionably brilliant works of statuary and their creators’ genius will be honored for an eternity. In Donatello’s “David”, the boy is holding the hilt of a large sword with the end of the blade touching the ground. On the other hand, Michelangelo’s “David” is a massive figure (much larger than life-sized) created from raw marble, which leaves no shine and relies on shadow to create its depth and form. Donatello’s “David” is a celebratory piece commemorating David’s triumph over the slain Goliath. Also, Donatello’s choice of brass for his piece gives the statue a more celebratory feel, while Michelangelo’s marble “David” is raw and chiseled and gives off a feeling of determination.