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What sculptures did Donatello create for the Church of San Antonio in Padua?
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Donatello
David, bronze sculpture by Donatello, early 15th century; in the Bargello Museum, Florence.
During his time in Padua, Donatello created several significant works for the Church of San Antonio, most notably a new high altar that remains one of the most ambitious projects of 15th-century Europe.1
The altar’s architectural framework originally contained the following elements:
- Bronze Statues: Seven life-size figures, including a majestic Madonna and a delicate, sensitive St. Francis.1
- Bronze Reliefs: 21 reliefs of varying sizes, the finest of which are the four miracles of St. Anthony, noted for their narrative power and rhythmic composition.1
- Limestone Relief: A large relief titled Entombment of Christ.1
In addition to the altar, Donatello also produced a "splendidly expressive" bronze crucifix for the church. While the equestrian statue of Gattamelata is associated with the Basilica of Sant’Antonio, it is located in the square outside the church rather than inside it.123