Compare/Contrast:
Michaelango's "David" is one of the most famous scultures of all time. It is iconic. There are a number of reasons for the statues popularity and appeal. Below I have provided you with some of the note-worthy information about the statue.
Important Information:
In Autumn 1504 the Florentines witnessed an exceptional event: after four days travelling round the city, transported with the care and attention normally reserved for great events, inside a wooden cage running on greased beams, Michelangelo's David finally reached its destination, the Piazza della Signoria - and was immediately celebrated as one of the greatest masterpieces of the Renaissance.
The statue was first intended to be displayed in the Cathedral, but was then felt to be of so great merit as to deserve a more important position.
Chronicles tell us of the immense surprise and marvel that the Florentines showed as it was uncovered. 'It took the voice away from statues both ancient and modern', wrote Vasari, author of a famous biography of the artist. Such a superb work had never been seen before either in Florence or elsewhere, with its manifest expression of awareness of power.
The Florentines, who called it Michelangelo's "giant", considered it the most explicit example of the spirit of the New Republic that had chased the Medici from Florence in 1494. When he created his David, Michelangelo was not even thirty, but had already produced works of great value such as the Tondo Doni which can be found in the Uffizi today. His David was so successful that he was called back to Rome by the Pope himself, Giulio II, for whom he would then paint the famous Sistine Chapel.
Due to its popularity we should not be surprised that this statue was used to promote a product. We should also not be surpised at the type of product that was promoted. All kidding aside, consider how significant the original piece was and still is today versus the slightly compromised version displayed in the Calvin Klein ad. Obviously, the piece is being utilized for a different purpose in each situation. In other words, don't simply dwell on the exterier differences but every aspect revolving around the ad and original work of art. As I've said before, you do not have to pick a side for your response. 250-500 words. HAVE FUN!
