The Statue of David was made by the genius Tuscan artist, Michelangelo Buonarroti.
Michelangelo was truly a Renaissance man, and this statue was created between 1501- 1504 (restored in 2003-2004). Michelangelo started the work when he was just 26 years old. This statue is made of one single block of marble from the quarries in Carrara in Tuscany. This marble is considered one of the whitest in the world.
Every time I come back to Florence I ask my family for one hour to admire this masterpiece of art with calm and quiet. It never bores me, there are always more details to discover. Michelangelo’s David is the most perfect and most famous of the statues in Florence and, perhaps, in all the world.
The Statue of David: no one needs to look at any other sculpture
The story of David and Goliath is biblical, found in Book 1 of Samuel. The teenage David chose to challenge the giant Goliath. He could not accomplish that by strength since David was much smaller. It took cunning and skill to defeat the bigger man. And all he had was a slingshot and five stones.
Many statues before Michelangelo’s that portray this story always show David AFTER he has defeated the giant, with the head by his feet. Michelangelo decided to go against the current and portray his David Before the battle.
You can see, in his face, total concentration as he thinks about how he’s going to do it. A rock is hidden inside his right palm, the slingshot seemingly at rest on his shoulder and he is waiting for the right moment, pretending to be at ease.
Michelangelo catches David at the apex of his concentration. He stands relaxed, but alert, resting in a classical pose known as contrapposto. The only way to defeat the giant is to catch him by surprise – and that is exactly what he did!
The statue of David is the world’s most famous illustration of physical perfection and continues to inspire the next generation of artists, 400 years later. For Michelangelo’s contemporary, Giorgio Vasari, the effect of viewing this masterpiece was so overwhelming, it cast the entire history of art into the shade.
“After seeing this, no one needs to look at any other sculpture or the work of any other artist,” he wrote in his landmark account of Italian Renaissance art. And still, there is no reason to argue with him all these years later.
Why this photograph of the Statue of David is so different?
David postcards, David t-shirts, aprons, underwear, paperweights, and much, much more. This image is ceaselessly recirculated throughout the city’s streets and boutiques. That, in and of itself, confirms the continued efficacy of this masterpiece to end all masterpieces. The statue of David is the undisputed star of the Florentine Renaissance.
As a professional photographer, I used all my skills and experience to best demonstrate the power of this image. I know, everybody can travel to Florence and take a picture of David. There are millions of pictures of this famous work of art. However, I’m offering you a spectacular interpretation of this image and all you have to do is order online… you never have to leave your home.
I’ve chosen to create this image of the statue of David in black & white because in my view the elimination of color forces the viewer to concentrate on the essential elements; light, form and texture. With this specific subject, the choice of black & white is simply the best because it delivers the strongest impact on the viewer.
I like the square format in photography. Photographs formatted in a square shape incorporate a powerful design element. Above all, shapes, and the negative space around them, become prominent. Also, you can simplify the composition almost to the point of abstraction. Most importantly, a square print looks good on a wall. They have a certain inherent beauty that rectangular images sometimes lack. This photographic composition instantly adds beauty and elegance to your home.
Let’s speak about your home for a moment
Adding art to your walls is one of the most transformative elements you can add to your interior style. It gives a space instant character and adds dimension and texture. It’s not easy to find the perfect piece, but once you start, it can become an enjoyable addiction.
The Statue of David photograph is one of the best ways to start your art collection. Thanks to the subject matter and composition you can’t make a mistake and it will look great in every room of your home.
The main appeal of the statue of David is that Michelangelo projects man at his best. It expresses a heroic view of man and a world that acknowledges success against great odds. Such a portrayal is meaningful to anyone whether they lived 500 years ago or they live today.
Everything about the statue is stunning. You could stand there looking at every part of it for hours, and you would still discover something new every time. Something is alluring about it that captures the imagination.
Giorgio Vasari, in 1568, was able to synthesize the absolute perfection of this Renaissance masterpiece:
“For in it may be seen most beautiful contours of legs, with attachments of limbs and slender outlines of flanks that are divine; nor has there ever been seen a pose so easy, or any grace to equal that in this work, or feet, hands and head so well in accord, one member with another, in harmony, design, and excellence of artistry”.(Giorgio Vasari, from his “Lives of the most excellent painters, sculptors, and architects”).
The artwork emanates an aura of stoic resilience, commanding attention with the sheer power of its subject. My inspiration as a photographer was drawn from the contrast of the chiseled perfection of the statue against the softness of the human form it represents.
The photograph stands as a testament to the human spirit's strength, embodying a struggle between vulnerability and power.
This image is unique as it encapsulates the stillness of time and the enduring power of art. I wanted to convey the emotions of awe and introspection, reminiscent of standing before a masterpiece carved centuries ago yet still resonating with today's world.
This is a piece that evokes a sense of admiration and inspiration, echoing the silent voice of an artist from the past.
The soft light, coupled with the black-and-white treatment, enhances the lines and textures of the marble, adding depth and a sense of realism to the image.
A discerning art enthusiast or anyone drawn to the allure of classic art will find this print appealing. This photograph is more than a mere decorative piece—it's a statement of refined taste, reflecting the owner's appreciation for timeless beauty and art history.
The image fits perfectly in a study or a living room, adding an instant sense of elegance and sophistication. It does not only beautify your home but also elevates your status as a connoisseur of fine art.
This is more than a photograph—it's an experience, a journey into the heart of human creativity. It's a conversation starter, guaranteed to incite intrigue and admiration. Don't miss the opportunity to make this extraordinary piece a part of your collection.
A Museum Quality Piece of Fine Art Photography
What is important to me is that I help you transform your home into a place of elegance and character.
I live in a country surrounded by the most exquisite art and I share this experience through my photography. I’d like to share the beauty of Italian Art with you for your enjoyment and to enhance your home.
I’ve chosen to work in partnership with Fine Art America. It’s the largest custom framing company in the world, with over 40 years of experience producing museum-quality prints.
Fine Art America offers hundreds of different frames and mats in a variety of colors and materials. Certainly, you can choose the dimension of the photograph that best works for you and your décor.
We’ll deliver the photograph right to your doorstep. The expert framing staff will hand-craft your photograph and ship it directly to you with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Paolo Modena
My name is Paolo. I am a photographer. I consider myself fortunate to have grown up in Italy, surrounded by the art that is the envy of the world. I enjoy photography because it has caused me to fall in love with light, shade, and color. I see the world around me with fresh eyes every single day. And sometimes, when the mood is right, I just sit back and enjoy the moment without taking a photo.