How did Donatello’s bronze David differ from his earlier marble David?

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Donatello: David — Donatello *David*, bronze sculpture by Donatello, early 15th century; in the Bargello Museum, Florence.

Donatello’s early marble David and his later bronze David represent distinct phases in his artistic development. The marble David, created early in his career, reflects the influence of the International Gothic style, characterized by graceful, softly curved lines.1

In contrast, the bronze David—the first large-scale, free-standing nude statue of the Renaissance—marks a significant departure. While the marble version was originally intended for the cathedral and functioned as a civic-patriotic symbol, the bronze David was conceived independently of any architectural setting. It is noted for being well-proportioned and superbly poised, with a harmonious calm that makes it the most classical of Donatello’s works. The bronze statue was likely commissioned for a private patron, whereas the earlier marble work served a public role at the Palazzo Vecchio.1