Renaissance Rivals - Michelangelo's David

Michelangelo and david
 Agostino di Duccio “had contracted with the Operai of the cathedral Office of Works in Florence to produce a giant representing a prophet, for a cathedral buttress” (Goffen 119). This giant was to be sectioned into four pieces.  However the mention of being carved from one block sparked interests in Agostino. This giant or prophet later came to represent David. Leonardo was considered for this commission before it was given to Michelangelo.

Michelangelo locked himself away until the sculpture was finished. The unveiling brought much fame to Michelangelo and such remarks as ‘the greatest artist in Italy.’  Instead of being used as a buttress, it was placed in the Palazzo della Signoria.

As this is a commentary on the rivals I will again mention Leonardo. It is thought Michelangelo referenced Leonardo’s studies on human expression that reflect the spiritual and intellectual life when carving the face of David. In size and technicality it surpassed Leonardo’s terracotta Horse.

During its placement, vandals threw rocks at the statue. I can’t begin to understand why someone would do this and an answer wasn’t given in my reading.

Leonardo's sketch of Michelangelo's David... his attempt at a more dynamic pose. Do you think it is better?