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Andrea del Castagno, David with the Head of Goliath, c. 1450–55
This David is painted on a leather shield that was made to be carried in processions. He is still swinging the sling, and the head of Goliath already lies at his feet: two moments in one picture.
Shields like this were carried in processions and at tournaments; this is the only surviving one painted by a major master. The curved surface is leather over wood. For Florence, David was a political figure: the small republic that defeats stronger enemies.
The stone is still lodged in Goliath's forehead.
In his right hand David holds the loaded sling, ready for the throw that has already happened.
