David by Bernini Gianlorenzo Bernini (1598-1680) - Galleria Borghese, Rome

David by Bernini   26" H Bonded White Marble $888 (less Internet discount of $100) = $788 (freight $45)  David by Bernini   16" H Bonded White Marble $164 (less Internet discount of $24) = $140 (freight $14)

Within the course of two hundred years, four completely different statues of David originated in Italy; all are masterpieces. Donatello's came first, then Verrocchio's, followed by Michelangelo's, and finally that of Bernini. The four sculptors had completely different objectives. Only Bernini appears to have been specifically interested in a believable depiction of the slaying of Goliath by the youthful David. Of the four statues, certainly Bernini's is the most dramatic, the most realistic portrayal of the biblical hero. That was the objective which Bernini wished to achieve. It was really not the objective of the other three sculptors. Bernini conceived and carved his statue of David in seven months, a remarkable achievement in itself. One fact of Bernini's great genius should be pointed out. Almost all statues which preceded his stood self contained, insulated, apart from the spectator. . Bernini causes the viewer to become a part of his David statue. He who looks at this giant slayer senses Goliath standing behind and above his shoulder. The viewer is almost prompted to move from the path of the projectile. The space in front of the statue becomes a part of the concept. David stands above his cast-off harp and armor. He grimaces with determination. The features are those of the twenty-four year old Bernini whose patron, Cardinal Barberinik, held a mirror while the youthful sculptor made a face and carved it. The immense tension of the twisted body conveys the force that David is ready to release. His muscular foot grips the base of the statue to withstand the body tension. The action has reached that moment when the stone is ready to be released. It is a marvel of dramatic action frozen in stone. This is the same item that was previously available from Eleganza in Seattle.