Lecture Notes: Renaissance Sculptures - Donatello and Michelangelo

Introduction

• Presenters: Chris and Saul
• Focus on two sculptures: Donatello's Bronze David and Michelangelo's David

Donatello's Bronze David

• Date: Sculpted in 1430
• Significance:
  • First bronze sculpture since classical times
  • First freestanding nude male sculpture
• Donatello's Background:
  • Considered odd and eccentric; known for smashing his work if he disliked it
  • Supported by the Medici family
• Artistic Features:
  • Movement: Left wrist on hip, bent knee over Goliath's head
  • Youthful depiction of David
• Symbolism:
  • Sword and rock: Represent Florence and Duke of Milan conflict
  • Rock symbolizes Florence's common folk
• Realism:
  • Detailed features like Goliath's realistic head, facial expressions, sword notches
• Location: National Museum, Florence

Michelangelo's David

• Known primarily for painting the Sistine Chapel ceiling
• Considered himself more a sculptor than a painter
• Characteristics:
  • Carved from a giant piece of marble known as "the Giant"
  • Height: 14 feet 3 inches (with pedestal, 26 feet)
  • Exudes power, fearlessness, determination
• Classical Influence:
  • Similar to Greek and Roman sculptures
  • Use of contrapposto for movement and tension
• Artistic Interpretation:
  • Focus on David's gaze, suggesting a focus beyond the sculpture itself

Comparison: Donatello's and Michelangelo's Davids

• Similarities:
  • Use of contrapposto for movement
• Differences:
  • Physicality: Michelangelo's David is more muscular and older
  • Size: Michelangelo's David is 14 feet tall, Donatello's is 5 feet tall
• Artistic Preferences:
  • Debate on personal preference between the two Davids
  • Discussion on symbolism and realism in both sculptures

Conclusion

• Chris and Saul present contrasting opinions on which sculpture is superior
• Appreciation for both artists' contributions to Renaissance art