David is a classic Renaissance sculpture by Michelangelo, an Italian artist who was involved in many different fields during his illustrious career. Michelangelo was a surprise choice, at only 26, for the commission of the Biblical King David. It took him 3 years, from 1501 to 1504 to create one of the most respected pieces of Renaissance art ever created, and it stands alongside his best oil paintings as one of Michelangelo's best works. The completed sculpture was unveiled on 8 September, 1504.
The sculpture stands at an impressive 5.17 metres and is constructed entirely of marble. The subject is Biblical King David as nude. It was a slightly different approach to previous incarnations of this great character, offering his pre-war musings rather than post-victory triumphalism. Florentines held the sculpture in high esteem, as they certainly still do, and it was to represent their struggle for power and control, but most importantly their defence of their personal values and rights from neighbouring rulers who sought to take Florence for themselves. Its symbolism is now lesser known across the world, but it is respected in its own right for the articulate skill and talent that is offers.
David, made of Carrara Marble is now stored in the Galleria dell'Accademia in Florence, Italy. The city of Florence is synonymous with Renaissance art and is also home to many of the most famous Renaissance paintings that Italy has produced. Other key works from the Florence Renaissance influence include Leonardo Da Vinci, best known for the Mona Lisa, but with a career equal to Michelangelo in quality and depth.
Source by Tom Gurney
