Read the discussion of Donatello’s bronze David and his Judith and Holofernes in the textbook (Hartt/Wilkins, Chapters 10 and 12). Then (re)read Sara Blake McHam’s essay on these two works (the link is on Canvas, in the module for Chapter 10).
Summarize and assess McHam’s argument in her essay on Donatello’s bronze David and the Judith and Holofernes. In what ways did it alter or enrich your critical/art historical understanding of these two works beyond the discussion in Hartt/Wilkins and/or your previous knowledge and assessment of these works.
Did you find McHam’s arguments convincing? Why or why not? Were there some arguments more compelling than others?[ If so, explain your reasoning as to why (and/or why not).
Did her essay enrich your understanding of the period, the artist and the works themselves? In what ways?
Explain the differences between Ghiberti’s first and second sets of Doors for the Florence Baptistery (the North Doors and the “Gates of Paradise)” and discuss the probable reasons for these changes. You might consider what was gained and/or lost by the change of relief shape from quatrefoil to square (and why, perhaps, was this change made)? How would you account for the change in narrative treatment? Choose two panels, one from each door and discuss them with respect to Ghiberti’s aesthetic concerns and artistic influences and development.
