Bernini’s sculpture is one of the most famous and appreciated works of art in the Borghese Gallery. It depicts King David in a moment of great tension and physical strength as he prepares to hurl a stone at Goliath. Bernini has captured the dynamism of the action with great skill, creating a scene that seems animated by great vital energy.The sculpture was made of white Carrara marble and features great detail in the rendering of the muscles and veins of David’s body. The figure is portrayed with an intense, concentrated expression, his eyes fixed on his prey. The posture is strongly unbalanced, as if David is preparing to throw the stone, and this gives the sculpture a sense of great movement and dynamism.Perhaps the most striking detail of the sculpture is Goliath’s head, which is located at David’s feet. The head, made with great realism, almost looks as if it is about to emit a cry of pain, adding further tension to the work.Bernini was able to give the sculpture great emotional intensity, creating a work of art that does not fail to leave an indelible impression on visitors to the Borghese Gallery.
