Name the subject of the sculpture, its artist. In comparison with other sculptures of this Biblical figure, what can be observed? Why do differences exist among artwork when using the subject matter?

The subject of the sculpture is David, and the artist is Bernini. The difference that is seen with his David compared to the rest is that Bernini sculptured the scene in motion. This is important because it reflects the art movement and the time in which he worked (Baroque).

Explanation:

The sculpture in question is David, by Gian Lorenzo Bernini. It shows the Biblical scene of the fight between David and Goliath.

What is different when it comes to Bernini’s sculpture is that it is in motion and very expressive. We see David in the middle of the fight, positioned to take the shot, while the focus can be seen on his face. The statue looks realistic and human, full of emotions. Compared to other descriptions of the same scene, such as Michelangelo’s David, this one is very vivid and graphic. Michelangelo sculptured David to look pensive and stoic, while Bernini’s description shows the fight as it happens.

The differences like this matter because they show the sentiment of the artist. When we look at other Bernini’s work, we can notice he always used very colorful expressions on his statues. They are all in the poses that suggest movement and action. The differences in artistic expression mark the change in the art movements of the West. Michelangelo’s David is the poster picture of the Renaissance – the age of thought, science, imagination, perfection. Bernini is the Baroque artist, and his David shows us expression and experimentation with movement and dynamics that take inspiration from human energy and emotion.