1386-1466. Italian sculptor of the early
Renaissance, born in Florence. He was
instrumental in reviving the Classical style,
as in his graceful bronze statue of the
youthful David (Bargello, Florence) and his
equestrian statue of the general Gattamelata
1443 (Padua). The course of Florentine art in
the 15th century was strongly influenced by
his style. Donatello introduced true
perspective in his relief sculptures, like
the panel of St George Slaying the Dragon
about 1415-17 (Or San Michele, Florence).
During a stay in Rome 1430-32 he absorbed
Classical influences, and David is said to be
the first free-standing nude since antiquity.
In his later work, such as his wood-carving
of the aged Mary Magdalene about 1456
(Baptistry, Florence), he sought dramatic
expression through a distorted, emaciated
figure style.