Art101 Checkpoint: Comparison of Three Sculptures

Checkpoint: Comparison of Three Sculptures

I had the opportunity to view all three sculptures of David in my book, by artist Donatello, Michelangelo, and Bernini. All three artists all differ in style which also reflects its time frame. Each piece has their own characteristic which reflects on their work.

Donatello’s sculpture of David was created in the Renaissance period his sculpture was sculpted in cast bronze. His piece showed signs of Greek influence which is displayed by the pose of the statue. Donatello captured a younger version of David and had a softer persona in comparison to the two.

Michelangelo’s sculpture was created during the High Renaissance time frame and was carved out of marble. His David portrayed a more heroic display in comparison to Donatello’s soft look. There was a more masculine athletic approach and feel to his piece. There was great attention to detail and form of the human anatomy. The added tension did not go unnoticed; he really paid attention to the emotion on his face. Michelangelo’s David showed a more heroic side to it.

Bernini’s David was sculpted in the Baroque period and displays yet another different form. His piece showed emotions and massive tension. The body showed off muscular features but is not too intense in comparison the Michelangelo’s David. It is also not as soft and youthful as Donatello’s David. Bernini’s showed a balance of both creating a more human feel instead of a super human. Although Bernini’s David had a more natural appeal to him, his facial expressions still showed aggression which is needed.

All three piece does show great quality work and the different prospective each artist had. Their time eras really reflected and help influence their sculpted work. Art is only as good how one perceives it to be, and not how the artist wants you to perceive thing to be.

References:

Sayre, H. M. (2010). A world of art. (6th ed., pp. 45-49). Prentice Hall.