"David"

David was a popularly depicted subject by Renaissance artists and sculptors such as Donatello, Verrocchio, and Michelangelo. But Bernini's sculpture differed radically from the poised, forward-facing forms that were traditional. Also, instead of showing the moment after David has defeated Goliath, which was customary, he shows him about to fire. 

This sculpture shows Bernini's characteristic portrayal of the decisive moment. He shows the figure as part of a wider story by creating the illusion of movement through the figure's stance and facial expression.  Bernini's twisting figures and deeply carved draperies defy the limits of niches and cannot be bound or framed by a single view. Instead the viewer is encouraged to walk around the sculpture, taking it in from multiple angles to fully appreciate every detail.

David's face was believed by Bernini's son to be a self-portrait, which may be how he achieved the exact expression he wanted, giving us insight into how Bernini worked. This sculpture shows a key change between the Renaissance and Baroque. Renaissance artists previously worked from ancient sculptures whereas Bernini worked directly from life.