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Wonders of Florence: sculpture of David.

Michelangelo is an Italian architect, painter, poet and sculptor, known throughout the world for his unique creations. The most striking and recognizable work of the master was the statue of David in Florence. About the history and description of this masterpiece, as well as interesting facts and other impressive works of the master, you will read in the presented article.

History of Michelangelo's statue

In the 15th century, construction work was underway in Florence to build the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. In the years of completion of construction, the question arose of decorating the interior of the building. This business was handled by a successful and enterprising guild of wool merchants. They were both the customer and the sponsor of the construction of the temple, as well as its interior design. Members of the society agreed that in order to give the building a special beauty and sophistication, it is necessary to decorate it with 12 statues of the prophets from the Old Testament.

In 1464, the sculptor Donatello and his student Agostino di Duccio created 2 statues. The guild liked the work of the masters, and they ordered another statue from them - David. For this, a large piece of marble, mined in Carrara, was delivered to Florence. After the death of Donatello in 1466, his journeyman refused to fulfill the contract. The creation of David passed into the hands of Antonio Rosselino, however, he could not fulfill the order given to him.

The lump under open sky, locals nicknamed "Giant". Due to the change in weather and temperature, the marble decreased in size, cracks and chips appeared on it. At the beginning of the 16th century, the ministers of the cathedral consulted with Leonardo da Vinci, who recognized the stone as fit for sculpture.

The next master who was entrusted with the execution of the statue of David was the 26-year-old Michelangelo Buonarroti. In August 1501, he signed a contract, and a month later he began to process the shapeless marble into a masterpiece of the ideal human body. The sculptor worked alone for days on end. The block stood in the open air, therefore, in the process of creating his creation, Michelangelo endured heavy rains, winter cold, and summer heat.

In January 1504, a "show" of the finished statue of David was scheduled. Such Florentine masters as Andrea dela Robbia, Botticelli, Giuliano and Antonio Sangallo, Perugino, Andrea Sovino and others came to the cathedral. They had to evaluate the creation of a young and ambitious Italian. After the removal of the fence protecting the sculpture from prying eyes, the eyes of the assembled critics appeared perfect david Michelangelo. All the masters who came admired his creation, and the Signoria, who was present, offered to make the sculpture a symbol of the new Republican Florence.

David was placed in Piazza della Signoria in May 1504, in place of the statue of Judith by Donatello. In 1527, the rule of Florence was again in the hands of the Medici family. As a result of the defense of one of the buildings of the city, David's hand was smashed to smithereens. The fragments were collected by the sculptor Vasari, and after 16 years (1543) he restored the masterpiece at the behest of Cosimo I Medici.

For several centuries David stood in the open air. Due to the inconsistency of the weather, the material became unusable. In the 19th century, the sculpture underwent 2 restorations, but they were extremely unsuccessful. In 1873, David was moved to the Academy Gallery, where he took a place specially designated for him - a large tribune. The place on Piazza della Signoria also did not remain in ruins. In 1910, an excellent copy of the Old Testament character was installed here.

In 2003-2004, Michelangelo's statue was cleaned of accumulated layers of dust and dirt. The work was carried out by professional restorers. Unfortunately, some visitors to the Florentine museum harm the majestic sculpture. In 1991, one of the visitors managed to chip off several pieces of marble from the toes of David's left foot.

Description of the statue of David

Michelangelo's sculpture of David is considered the finest work of Italian Renaissance art. The marble youth from the legends of the Old Testament is recognized as a perfect creation and the ideal of male beauty.

The original statue of David is 5 m 17 cm high. It depicts a naked young man who is preparing for the upcoming fight with Goliath. The statue of Michelangelo is a kind of innovation, because. the predecessors of the master created sculptures of a hero triumphing over a fallen giant. In the pose of David, one can notice concentration and calmness. The facial expression suggests that the young man is not afraid of Goliath. David's muscles are tense: his left hand holds a sling thrown over his shoulder. From below, the right hand picks up the weapon, in which the hero holds a stone. The figure of David indicates that he is ready to fight with a strong enemy and has prepared a deadly blow for him.

Today, the original statue of David is in the Academy of Fine Arts in Florence.

David is a character in the Bible. According to the biblical legend, the young man defeated Goliath with a stone and a sling, although the naked body of the hero contradicts the principles of the religious book.
David in Florence exceeds the height of a man by almost 3 times.
The right hand of the young man is asymmetric, and does not fit the proportions of the rest of the body. Many experts believe that this "oversight" was made on purpose to emphasize David's nickname - a strong hand.
Due to the fact that the sling is in David's left hand, the hero is considered left-handed. However, the position of the body of the sculpture suggests otherwise.
Initially, the statue of Michelangelo was planned to be placed on the dome of the cathedral. Seeing the masterpiece created by the master, they decided to place it in a more prominent place - Signoria Square.
Before the creation of the famous David, Michelangelo managed to declare himself as a talented sculptor. Fame brought to the master the work "Roman Pieta". Later, the Italian created the frescoes of the Sistine Chapel, and was recognized as an outstanding painter of that time.
The pose of David has clear similarities with the sculptures of Hercules.
David has many copies. The most famous of them are located in Piazza della Signoria and Michelangelo in Florence, in London Museum Albert and Victoria, as well as in the Moscow Pushkin Museum.
In 1857, Queen Victoria of England was presented with a copy of David. The queen did not like the nakedness of the hero, and she ordered to cover his genitals with a fig leaf made of plaster.
In the 20th century, the authorities of Florence wanted to donate a cast of the sculpture of the Old Testament character to Jerusalem. Authorities Israeli city refused the gift, justifying this by the fact that David is depicted as an Italian, and not a Jew. According to the country's religion, Jewish men must have their foreskin circumcised.

Other works by Michelangelo

During his life, Michelangelo created many valuable works of art. In addition to David, the Roman Pieta and the frescoes of the Sistine Chapel, the master created the following masterpieces:

Sculptures and bas-reliefs:

Madonna at the stairs;
Battle of the centaurs;
crucifix;
Saint Proclus;
St. Peter;
Angel;
Saint Paul;
Bacchus (the first creation of Michelangelo);
Saint Pius I;
Saint George I;
Venus and Cupid;
Saint Matthew;
Moses and others

Painting:

Position in the coffin;
Madonna Donnie;
Madonna and Child;
Last Judgment;
Titius;
Cleopatra;
Crucifixion of Saint Peter;
Epiphany, etc.

Architecture:

tombstone of Giuliano Medici;
vestibule, staircase and reading room of the Laurenzian Library;
Palace of the Conservatives in Rome;
tomb of Julius II;
Palazzo Farnese in Rome;
Gate of Pius in Rome;
Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri in Rome, etc.

Some works of the Italian master were lost over time. In addition, several creations have no evidence of Michelangelo's authorship.

The famous David, whose statue is located in Florence, is recognized as an outstanding masterpiece not only by Michelangelo Buonarroti, but of the entire Italian Renaissance. If you are in this region of Italy, then be sure to visit the Academy of Fine Arts, and look at the famous 5-meter sculpture with your own eyes.

Piazza della Signoria (Florence, Italy) - description, history, location, reviews, photos and videos.

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Situated in front of the Palazzo Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria is the center of mass interesting sculptures- from "David" by Michelangelo to "Judith and Holofernes" by Donatello and "Perseus with the Head of Medusa" by Cellini. At one time, the Holy Inquisition and prominent political figures of the republic set fires here in order to get the love of the townspeople. By the latter, of course, we mean the legendary Savanarola, who, calling for a fight against luxury, lit such a fire of books, clothes, paintings and musical instruments that the devil felt sick. A year later, in 1498, the Inquisition was already frolicking here, burning Savanarola himself at the stake. As you can see, the square has a rich history.

If we return to the architectural charm of Piazza della Signoria, then there is something to please the taste of even the most reverent art lovers. The L-shaped square is a one of a kind allegorical cycle of statues, supposed to inspire the rulers of the Republic of Florence on their way to the Palazzo Vecchio. It seems that the area coped with its task "five plus". To understand why, it is enough to take a closer look at the copies of the masterpieces that have been standing here in silent silence under the light of the moon for years for the amusement of the public.

For example, "David" by Michelangelo (1501-1504), which every schoolchild is able to recognize today, and every Italian businessman is in a hurry to sell an apron depicting spicy naked parts of David's body to tourists. The sculpture was created during the Second Florentine Republic, when Savanarola came to power after expelling the Medici. So, under Goliath, with whom David is about to fight, they meant the French king Charles VIII and Pope Alexander VI Borgia, who were trying to capture Florence.

It is worth paying attention to the "Judith with the Head of Holofernes" by Donatello (1455-1460), which, by the way, was first made for the Medici Palace, but with the announcement of the republic it was moved to Signoria Square. A couple more sculptures belong to Donatello's hand in the square - this is “Marzocco” (a lion with an iris on a shield) and two stone lions near the loggia of Lanzi.

To the right of the entrance to the Old Palace stands "Hercules defeating Cacus" by Baccio Bandinelli.

Note the stone with a scratched human profile behind the sculpture. According to legend, Michelangelo left him here, arguing that he could carve a portrait of a scoundrel who was about to be hung in the square, turning his back to the stone.

It is worth paying attention to the fountain of Neptune by the hand of Bartolomeo Ammanati, which appeared on the square on the occasion of the marriage of Francesco I Medici (1570). Finally, the loggia of Lanzi, built from 1376 to 1382 by Benci di Cione and Simone di Francesco Talenti, is of amazing work. Designed for meetings and receptions of the Florentine Republic, today it is a loggia - real museum open air. Of course, the main local attractions are the sculptures of ancient heroes, in particular the “Abduction of Polyxena” by Pio Fedi, “Hercules and the Centaur” and “The Abduction of the Sabine Women” by Giambologna, “Perseus with the Head of Medusa” by Cellini.

Almost all the sculptures in Piazza della Signoria are copies. The only exception is Cellini's Perseus.

Address: Piazza della Signoria

Piazza della Signoria: this name in the cities of medieval Italy was given to squares that housed self-government bodies or residences of government officials (Signoria Signoria Square (Florence) (Italian Piazza della Signoria) ... ... Wikipedia

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FLORENCE, city in Italy. 408 thousand inhabitants. Metallurgy, various mechanical engineering; chemical, oil refining, textile, leather and footwear, woodworking, glass, printing, food industries. Production… … Modern Encyclopedia

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Piazza della Signoria is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Florence. Florence, with its unique history, is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. World-class artists such as Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo were born and created here. Piazza della Signoria in the city center is always filled with tourists. Not surprising, as landmarks such as the Palazzo Vecchio, the Uffizi and the Science Museum are located here. The square displays several legendary statues made by famous Italian sculptors. One of the most famous statues in Florence's Piazza della Signoria is a copy of Michelangelo's David, one of the best works of the Renaissance era.

Piazza della Signoria was created in the thirteenth century and became the most important square in Florence due to the proximity of the Palazzo Vecchio and the Uffizi Palace. In those days, the area belonged to the most influential Uberti family in Florence. The Ubertis supported the pro-imperial faction, while their main opponents, the Buondelmonti family, supported the pro-Papist faction. The two sides competed for centuries, but after the defeat of the imperial army in the Battle of Benevento in 1266, the Uberti family was expelled and their buildings demolished. As a symbol of victory, the ruins of the buildings were preserved for a decade, after which a square appeared in their place. The Palazzo Vecchio and the adjoining Uffizi were also built on the former properties of the Uberti family.

At the end of the thirteenth century, construction began on a new building for the municipal council. Completed in 1322, it was originally known as Palazzo Popolo but later renamed Palazzo Vecchio (Old Palace). The presence of the palazzo gave Piazza della Signoria a key role in the political history of Florence. From the fourteenth century the Florentines gathered in the square during important political events.

While the square is not that big compared to other Tuscan cities, Piazza della Signoria is very lively thanks to the many attractions nearby. It is essentially an open-air museum of architecture, with many statues reminiscent of Florence's glorious past.

The most famous statue in the square is Michelangelo's David, one of the masterpieces of Renaissance sculpture. The statue was created in 1504 for the city of Florence and was placed in front of the Palazzo Vecchio. In 1873 the statue was replaced by a copy, and the original is now in the Accademia Gallery. In 1533, a statue of Hercules, created by Baccio Bandinelli, was added to the square. According to legend, Florence was founded on the swamps, where the mythical hero lived. The fountain of Neptune was created between 1563-1575. The project of Bartolomeo Ammannati depicts the god of the sea, surrounded by sea nymphs.

The world-famous Piazza della Signoria in Florence was at one time a very important object for the inhabitants of the republic. Even under the empire of Rome, a theater was located on its territory, where not only plays were staged, but also important political topics were raised.

Freedom Center

Subsequently, the place was occupied by the nobility and the nobility. On the land they built splendid estates. So, 36 towers belonging to the Uberti family were built. Representatives of this genus were called Ghibellins. They supported the emperor. But in 1260, merchants, merchants and artisans - the Guelphs, who condemned the ruler and promoted the power of the pope, broke all the buildings. Since then, it was believed that this land was cursed and it was forbidden to build on it.

Piazza della Signoria in Florence was a witness to many political, social and public upheavals. A photo of the place where the most important issues were resolved can be seen in the article. Later, the territory became the center of government of the republic.

New old palace

One of the most important objects is the house, which currently serves as the town hall. This is the work of the Italian architect Arnolfo di Cambio. The first stones were laid in 1298. After the construction was completed, the building was occupied by the government of the communes (prior). Its representatives were the heads of workshops and manufactories. They moved here from the Bargello building. Therefore, the previous monastery began to be called the old palace, and the part of the building, where the windows overlook Signoria Square in Florence, was called the new one.

From the assessors came the first name. The area in front of the building was called Priorov Square.

In the 15th century, the house was rewritten in della Signoria. The transformation was caused by the fact that the ruling link declared themselves seniors. But such a nickname existed until 1540. Then Cosimo I, a representative of the Medici line (oligarchic clan), settled in the palace. The building was dubbed Palazzo Ducale, and the area under the walls - Grand Duke's Square. But the rich man did not like living here. He soon moved. The building, which was considered new, automatically became old, which is why it received the following name - Palazzo Vecchio, which it bears to this day.

Greek heroes in Italian art

Thousands of cities and squares have survived revolutions and Florence, Piazza della Signoria, is no exception. The sculptures, which the whole city is proud of, aimed not only to exalt the fine arts, but also to create a certain ruler, who went to decide the fate of the republic in the Palazzo Vecchio, had to tune in to justice.

Another interesting monument square - the Loggia of Lanzi. At first, the arch was used for receptions held by the republic.

Now all the exhibits are just on the street. These are such brilliant compositions as "Hercules and the Centaur", "Perseus and the Head of Medusa", "The Rape of the Sabine Women", "Menelaus with the Body of Patroclus". Currently, they are not just for contemporary artists, but immortal works of art and the pride of mankind.

Business card of Florence

The figure that changed the idea of sculpture was unveiled on September 8, 1504. The Signoria Square in Florence had the honor of showing David to the world. The photo of this marble man is the most popular among all the pictures of stone and metal works. Michelangelo portrayed the hero before the battle with Goliath.

The statue has real combat damage. In 1528, during the uprising, heavy objects were thrown down from the windows of the Vecchio. One of the benches hit David and beat off his arm. In three days it was glued back.

In 1873, it was decided to transfer the statue to the Academy fine arts to keep it from the harmful effects of atmospheric phenomena. In 1910, a copy took its place.

Rival Michelangelo

The symbol of strength was "Hercules defeating Cacus". Baccio Bandinelli worked on it. The demigod is located next to David, on the right side of the entrance to the palace, which separates Piazza della Signoria in Florence from the city. The plan of this composition is ambiguous.

According to the master's idea, this is the embodiment of law and justice. The sculpture took its place in 1534.

The project brought popularity to Baccio Bandinelli. After the author of David left the city, he was given the primacy in art. Despite the fact that the fame of his predecessor irritated him, the man tried to adopt the style of his opponent.

His Hercules proudly raised his head, because in an equal fight he defeated the son of Hephaestus, a terrible monster.

Behind the back of the pedestal is a relief carved by Michelangelo. According to legend, the creator bet with someone that he was so talented that he could depict the face of a criminal who was waiting for execution without even looking at him.

Image of independence

One of the first statues that adorned Piazza della Signoria in Florence (Italy) was the work of Donatello "Judith with the Head of Holofernes". The legend of the plot gained great popularity during the Renaissance. The myth says that an army attacked a peaceful village. One beauty decided to help native land. She changed into her best outfit and went to the military camp. There, under the spell of Judith, the commander-in-chief of the army fell. The couple retired, and when the commander fell asleep, the beauty killed him. Thus the village was saved. In art, a brave maiden is depicted with a severed head in her hand.

Piazza della Signoria in Florence aims to convey various kinds of ideas to the authorities. The heroine has become a symbol of patriotism and independence. At first it was intended for the Medici garden, where it decorated the fountain. But in 1495 there was a coup, the oligarchs were overthrown. The sculpture was stolen and placed on the square. When the rulers again headed the republic, everything that the people took was returned. The only thing that was not taken back was "Judith with the head of Holofernes." She became the embodiment of the struggle of the people against the authorities.

Two masters of one project

Another gem - Author - Bartolomeo Ammanati, one of the most hardworking sculptors. The year of birth of the pedestal is 1570. The composition is centrally located and visually heads Piazza della Signoria in Florence. Interesting Facts associated with the statue make you smile. At the opening, the audience was unpleasantly surprised by the work of the master. Residents chanted: "Ammanati, Ammanati, how much marble did you spend."

The main character is the god of the oceans. He leads a chariot drawn by sea horses.

Complemented the Giambologna ensemble. Bizarre bronze creatures on the edge are his creations.

The fountain was used daily for domestic needs. In 1720, the authorities hung a plaque on the wall of the palace, which can still be seen today. It said that from now on, everyone who does laundry, throws garbage or bathes in the fountain must pay a fine.

Italy is famous for carnivals. Received guests in masks and Piazza della Signoria in Florence. So, in 1830, one of the statues (thrown over a suit) was stolen by vandals. Her fate is still unknown. Within a year, the city installed a replica in its place.