Donatello

Donatello was a great sculptor of the early Renaissance who combined ideas from classical and medieval sculpture to create innovative forms. He was highly sought after in Italian cities and contributed to major commissions of church and state. This book explores his creativity within the context of fifteenth-century Italy and his legacy, inspiring subsequent generations.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 02 February 2023
Publisher: V & A Publishing

Donatello, widely regarded as the greatest sculptor of all time, played a pivotal role in the early Renaissance's sculptural revolution. By seamlessly blending ideas from classical and medieval sculpture, he created groundbreaking sculptural forms that conveyed profound emotions and were intended to inspire spiritual devotion. His masterpieces, such as the penitent St. Mary Magdalene and the bronze statue of David, continue to resonate with audiences today. Working with various materials including marble, bronze, wood, terracotta, and stucco, Donatello contributed to significant commissions for both church and state. He was closely associated with the Medici family in Florence and was highly sought after in other Italian cities. This captivating book, specially commissioned to accompany the 2023 exhibition at the V&A, delves into Donatello's extraordinary creativity within the vibrant artistic and cultural context of fifteenth-century Italy. It explores his early connections with goldsmiths' work, the collaborative nature of his workshop, and the innovative techniques he employed. Furthermore, the book reflects on Donatello's lasting legacy, examining how his sculpture inspired subsequent generations in the later Renaissance and beyond.

Dimension: 287 x 247 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781838510343