Friday, April 29, 2011

Accademia in Florence

The Accademia is widely known for housing Michelangelo's "David" and "Prisoners" sculptures (as well as more sculptures done by him). The museum, often called the second most popular, also displays Giambologna's "Rape of the Sabines", and Botticelli's "Madonna and Child" and "Madonna of the Sea". All four of the sculptures are considered must see's!

"David"
This sculpture came to the Accademia in 1873 to better preserve it. There is a copy of the statue where it was originally standing at Piazza del Signoria. Most people are familiar with the statue but not with the statue's actual size. "David" stands 16 feet high and is carved out of marble. Unknown to many, the statue is not quite proportionate. The head and hands are very over sized. This was done on purpose my Michelangelo because he knew the stature would be looked at from below, not at eye level. However, if able to view the statue at eye level, it is evident that the eyes of David are not looking in the same direction!

http://www.visitflorence.com/florence-museums/accademia-gallery.html

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