Donatello:David

Donatello's bronze David is an early Renaissance statue representing the biblical hero after his victory over Goliath. Made for the Medici family, it is now in the Bargello National Museum in Florence. The young figure stands with a sword and Goliath's head at his feet, presenting the outcome of the encounter rather than the action itself. A relaxed stance and carefully finished surface connect the work with the study of ancient sculpture. Its freestanding form invites viewing from different sides. The contrast between the youthful victor and his defeated opponent gives physical expression to a biblical account of courage and divine assistance.