Please enjoy photos of David’s most famous and larger-than-life marble sculpture by Italy’s top artist Michelangelo and its more miniature replica, which I purchased in Florence when I was invited to a national meeting in Milan.
The highly respected key artist of the Italian High Renaissance, Michelangelo, created the 17 ft tall towering statue from a single block of marble between 1501 and 1504. A prominent figure in Florence, Michelangelo—who was only 26 years old—was commissioned to carve the sculpture as one in a series that would line the roof of the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore (“Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Flower”). However, once the 6-ton piece was completed, it was clear that it would be nearly impossible to lift. Thus, it was decided David be placed in the Palazzo della Signoria (where it stood as a symbol of strength and defiance) from 1504 until its permanent relocation to the Galleria dell’Accademia in 1873. There are 30 life-sized replicas of David around the world.
According to the Bible, David battles Goliath, a colossal Philistine. Against all odds, an unarmored David knocks down his enemy using a sling and then beheads him with his sword.
The Statue of David embodies the city of Florence, symbolizing independence and strength in the perfect image of youthful beauty. David is viewed as an ideal symbol of Florence, as he captured the unwavering courage, unexpected strength, and historic perseverance that Florence residents saw in themselves.
Tan It Koon
Before retirement, Dr Tan It Koon was, among many appointments, Head of Clinical Biochemistry at SGH’s Dept of Pathology. He was the Deputy Chairman of the National Theatre Trust and Chairman for Grants and Scholarships of the Spore Cultural Foundation. He received the National Day Awards, PBM, and PPA, for his contribution to cultural and community development and excellence in Public Administration.
