Diameter 60 mm. Minted ? pc. Шкурко, Салыков# 1807. "600 лет со дня рождения Донателло"
Donatello: The Renaissance Sculptor Who Shaped Modern Art Donato di Niccolò di Betto Bardi, better known as Donatello, was an Italian sculptor of the early Renaissance whose work profoundly influenced the course of Western art. Born in Florence around 1386, Donatello's innovations in sculpture, particularly his mastery of perspective, human anatomy, and the expression of emotion, marked a significant departure from the medieval Gothic style prevalent in his time.
Early Life and Training: Donatello began his career in the workshop of Lorenzo Ghiberti, where he learned the craft of bronze sculpture. His early works show the influence of classical art, which he studied in detail, reviving the art of relief that had been largely forgotten since antiquity.
Major Works: David (circa 1430-1440): Perhaps his most famous work, this bronze statue of David was revolutionary for its time. It represents one of the first freestanding nude male sculptures since antiquity, highlighting Donatello's interest in the human form and classical poses. St. George Tabernacle (circa 1415-1420): This work, located in the Orsanmichele church in Florence, is notable for its realistic portrayal of St. George, with a sense of depth and a contrapposto stance that suggests movement and life. Gattamelata (1447-1453): The equestrian statue of Erasmo da Narni, known as Gattamelata, in Padua, was groundbreaking. It was the first such monument since Roman times, demonstrating Donatello's ability to capture the weight and balance of a horse and rider. Mary Magdalene (circa 1454-1455): This wooden statue, with its intense emotional expression and detailed rendering of age and penitence, showcases Donatello's skill in conveying psychological depth.
Innovations and Techniques: Donatello's use of perspective in relief sculptures created an illusion of depth that was unprecedented. His technique of schiacciato (flattened relief) allowed him to depict scenes with remarkable detail and a sense of space, manipulating light and shadow to enhance realism.
Legacy: Donatello's contributions to sculpture were pivotal in the transition from the medieval to the Renaissance aesthetic. His work inspired a generation of artists, including Michelangelo, who acknowledged Donatello's influence. His ability to capture the human spirit in bronze and marble not only revived classical techniques but also introduced a new emotional depth and realism.
Later Life and Death: Donatello never married and remained dedicated to his art. He died in Florence in 1466, leaving behind a legacy that would shape the future of Western art. His works continue to be celebrated for their technical mastery, emotional resonance, and the profound impact they had on the development of Renaissance art.
Donatello's life and work stand as a testament to the power of observation, innovation, and technical skill, making him a cornerstone figure in the history of art. His sculptures are not just artistic masterpieces but also windows into the human soul, capturing moments of beauty, strength, and vulnerability that transcend time.