The statue of David has become one of the most recognisable pieces of art, with the city of Florence being its home.

Created by the world-famous Michelangelo, who was an Italian Renaissance master. David is just one of Michelangelo’s masterpieces, with the entire region of Italy littered with his accomplishments.

About Michelangelo’s Young life

Michelangelo’s full name was Michelangelo di Lodovico Buonarroti Simoni, and was born on March 6, 1475, to a middle-class family of bankers in the small village of Caprese, in Tuscany. Due to his mother, Francesca Neri, illness, Michelangelo was placed in the home of his nanny, whose husband was a stonecutter. This early experience can be showcased through his skills in stonecutting statues in his later years. By the time he was 13 years old, his love of art was clear, so his father sent him to work as an apprentice in the well-known studio of Domenico Ghirlandaio. During his development of art, Michelangelo obtained great knowledge, being exposed to the great classical sculptures in the palace of Lorenzo.

His Personality

Although Michelangelo’s brilliant artwork and mind gave him immense popularity and power, his mannerisms and personality clashed. Growing up underprivileged in ways, he was not used to the world of wealth. As his contentious personality and quick temper leading to inharmonious relationships with his superiors. Old documents of his writing even state ‘I have no friends of any kind, nor do I want them’, showcasing his harsh nature with people.

His Success

Despite his punitive personality, his artwork shown beauty. He became one of the most successful artists of all time, not just in Italy, but worldwide. Creating renowned artworks such as the Sistine Ceiling, Last Judgement, the dome at St. Peters, and of course, the statue of David.

Between 1501 and 1504, Michelangelo created Florence’s true gem, the statue of David. He was the third sculptor to attempt this piece, with two prior sculptors commissioned and sacked after abandoning the artwork. What Michelangelo created was a 17-foot piece of marble, showcasing a truly dominating figure that has awed people for centuries. The piece is significant for many reasons, but the main is Michelangelo’s ability to showcase both strength and vulnerability equally, showcasing the humanity of expression and overall courage. It was originally commissioned for the Cathedral of Florence, but nowadays it can be found in the city’s Accademia Gallery.

Related article: 9 Masterpieces You Must See in Florence

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