The Statue of David... Scandalous?

We all recognise this statue as an element of popular culture, but was it always considered appropriate? Initially, this statue was commissioned to stand along the roofline of the east end of the Florence Cathedral (80mt above the ground). However, it was then moved to the city hall of Florence, Palazzo della Signoria, in May 1504. Towering over its viewers, this statue was a shocking symbol for Florentine citizens due to its errotic qualities.

In Ancient Greece nudity was custom and even, at times, conventional such as in battle. However, as time progressed nudity became shameful, and moreover, the Church deemed it as a mark of poverty and slavery. Thus, society was not yet accustomed to seeing male nudity in public squares, or not at least until the Renaissance.

The statue of David is meant to represent a Biblical hero. In the First Book of Samuel, David brutally defeats and beheads evil Goliath. Though David is young and is not physically muscular, through the help of God he defeats this powerful warrior and saves his town.

It is odd then, that this statue has a sensual connotation. Simply through his stance we can notice the sexual iconography present, and this is not the only representation of David that exhibits this.

Donatello's David is perhaps the most disturbing interpretation of David's battle... Just look at the feather that climbs David's leg to touch his crotch.

In fact, both these statues were controversial at their time, and yet when we go to the Galleria Accademia to see Michelangelo's David or to the Bargello to see Donatello's, we overlook the sensuality present and how scandalous this once was.

So if you ever go to Florence and look at these statues, think of how revolutionary they once were and the power they exhibited over their viewers.

If you are interested in learning more let me know! I am currently writing my extended essay on this :)