Art critic? I would not hold claims to this title, I will say, however, I am an eager and earnest learner and have throughly enjoyed our treks through the halls of the masters.
I have learned the importance of augmenting museum visits with guided tours or audio to provide the backdrop, history, cultural setting, and thumbnail sketch of the artist and the piece displayed. Even “knowing of” a particular work, is greatly enhanced with informational facts which serve as the backdrop to understanding and remembering many pieces in a significant manner.
This statue of David caught my attention because I had previously seen pictures of this work somewhere in the past. I also had kind of a fuzzy remembrance that this very statue, like many other distinguished works of art, is accompanied by a myriad of opinions as to how Donatello’s David is to be interpreted. That aside, this sculpture is a spectacular work by this famous artist, and is the first unsupported bronze sculpture produced during the Renaissance and is considered one of the most important works in the history of western art. It is unique and unexpected, as David is sporting a sword in his hand, with the head of Goliath at his feet; he is entirely naked except for the laurel-topped, shepherd’s hat (I’m sorry–Minnie Pearl comes to my mind) and military boots. It is not difficult to understand how this art piece might create some diverse ideas as to its meaning. This very David is perhaps, one definition of authentic, stirring, and controversial art that has stood the test of time.
This piece of art is not a “look and move on” relief scene. There is a deep seriousness and draw to the symbol of the Cross, and association with the early Christian martyrdoms, and Jesus’ subjecting Himself to this agony on our behalf.
Historically, Peter was executed on the cross, but requested he be crucified upside down as he was not worthy to die the same death that Jesus did. His execution was initiated by the Roman Emperor Nero—blaming Christians for starting a tragic fire which caused great damage to Rome.
Robbia created this relief from marble, entitled, “Crucifixion Saints” in 1439.
Sadly, I could only find the date of the creation of this art piece, the author, and the material used and nothing further.
Art is profound. It has the potential to produce a myriad of emotions—such as anger, disgust, joy, sadness, and sorrow in us. It has the capacity to jolt our memories in ways that no other medium is able.
Was this also in Florence? I hope you are going south in Italy as well! Rome is just one big history lesson wrapped in delicious pasta! 😏
YES! This was in Florence. We also spent time in Rome. . .working on a blog to reflect. . .if I am able. . .