What David's Story Means to Us

(Posted May 13, 2025)

By Lynda DeLuryea

When you think about famous historic sculptures, which ones come to mind?

Maybe one of the oldest is the Venus de Milo located in the Louvre in Paris.

Or you might remember The Thinker by Rodin, located in the Rodin Museum, also in Paris.

In Rome is Michaelangelo’s sadly beautiful Pietà with Mary holding Jesus after the crucifixion.

One of my favorites, also by Michaelangelo, is the David in the Accademia Gallery, Florence, Italy.

David: Strength and Youthful Beauty

Created by Michaelangelo, age 26, from a gigantic block of marble placed in an upright position with scaffolding around it so he could reach every part, it stands 17’ high and weighs 8+ tons. He worked on it from 1501-1504 and it stands today as a gleaming white marble symbol of strength and youthful beauty. Originally created for the Duomo Square, it was moved to the Accademia Gallery for protection. A bronze replica is in the square. In later years Michaelangelo said he merely liberated figures that were already existent in the stone.

David Ready for Battle

Michelangelo depicts David before the battle with Goliath. David is tense: Michelangelo catches him at the apex of his concentration. He stands relaxed, but alert. The figure stands with one leg holding its full weight and the other leg forward, causing the figure’s hips and shoulders to rest at opposing angles, giving a slight s-curve to the entire torso.

David’s Victory

David was armed only with his rock, his sling, his faith in God and his courage. The slingshot he carries over his shoulder is almost invisible, emphasizing that David’s victory was one of cleverness, not sheer force. He transmits exceptional self-confidence and concentration, both values of the “thinking man”, considered perfection during the Renaissance.

This Sunday we will be hearing more about David and what his story might mean to us.