How does Michelangelo's David differ from its fifteenth century predecessors?

Answer 1

Bernini and Michelangelo were two artists that sculpted versions of David. Several differences spring to mind when comparing Bernini's sculpture of David with Michelangelo's. Those would be the period in which they were sculpted, the size of the statues and especially the moment in time that was chosen. In the next few paragraphs I am prepared to elaborate on these differences.The most obvious difference I believe would be the moment in time that both artists chose to represent in carving their Davids. Bernini's David seems to be right in the middle of the battle. He is in the process of using his sling in order to defeat the horrible Goliath. The muscles in his legs are very tight as he is stepping forward. His arms and chest seem to be tensed as if he is in the process of gathering momentum in order to issue a powerful blow with the rock that is about to be hurled from his sling. Also the activity of slinging the stone seems to be pulling David's robe from his body but Bernini chose to capture this action before he is actually exposing any nudity. This statue was carved during the Baroque Era and is typical of this era because it depicts the subject in motion. This "busy" work of art certainly represents ac

Another difference that I feel should be mentioned is the fact that Michelangelo's David is well over the normal height of a normal human being as opposed to the life sized statue of Bernini's David. I would say that the first thing you notice when you see this statue is the fact that he is unclothed. To be honest at first glance I didn't know if this David was representing a time before or after the fight. In conclusion I would like to mention that both of these statues are beautiful and awesome in their own right. His posture seems to emanate more of a stress-free confidence. As you observe further you can see that his hair is tussled and laying haphazardly on his head. And even though Bernini didn't go as far as sculpting David's adversary you still get the feeling that he is situated right in front of him. And let's not forget about how this particular David gives you a concept of specific time which is something else introduced by artists in the Baroque Era. The muscles in his legs seem to be more relaxed from the stance he was carved in. In comparison Michelangelo's David seems very still and confident. Bernini's figure seems to exude physical strength and aggression which is exactly what is needed in order to defeat the terrible and mighty Goliath. He seems to be preparing to defeat his adversary with skill and intellect. This was also a time when artists first started really being concerned with keeping their sculptures anatomically correct and in true form to reality. His right arm is lying calmly at his side with that hand holding the stone. This David exudes a quiet and calm right before the battle with Goliath.

Answer 2

Michelangelo's gigantic David is focusing on his approaching enemy. Donatello's much smaller bronze David is resting his foot on Goliath's severed head after having defeated him. Donatello had already made a marble David which is quite different.

Answer 3

Since Donatello did 2 sculptures of David this will address the bronze David by Donatello. Michelangelo chose to show David at the moment before he throws the stone that kills Goliath. David is still a boy on his way to becoming a man. He is larger than life size to portray the idea that David was a character truly larger than life. In the bronze by Donatello David is portrayed after he kills Goliath, with his foot resting on the giants head. The Donatello is a much more feminine figure, David has the face and body of a boy with no hint of the man he will become. There are few similarities, one of which is the free standing nature of the pieces and their nakedness (although the Donatello David does have a wrap or toga and hat). This type of sculpture had not been seen since antiquity.

Answer 4

Concerning realism Berninis David is better crafted, concerning craftsmanship and size Michelangelo's David is better crafted.

Answer 5

I think Donatello DAVID looks more feminine hero where as Michelangelo DAVID is muscular man. They are same in some manner like curly hair and nude body.

Answer 6

Verrocchio's is very youthful, dressed, and has already slain Goliath. Michelangelo's is nude, muscular and is concentrating on meeting Goliath.

Answer 7

because humans don't appreciate his work as much the don't understand themselves or Michelangelo