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Michelangelo’s sculpture of David in Florence has remained unchanged for over 500 years. It is known as an icon of masculinity and one of the world’s most famous works of art.
However, as Italy emerges from the pandemic, the David has been given a whole new look.
A new lighting system has revolutionized the appearance of the famous statue, revealing small details that have never been seen before.
Lucia Lazic, a guide who visits the Accademia Gallery regularly, recently noticed new muscle details on the David’s body that she had never seen before.
According to Cecilie Hollberg, director of the Accademia, the new lighting system has improved the visual perception of the artworks, making the David’s marble appear whiter and the details more visible.
The lighting system, installed in September, aims to bring the “dynamism of sunlight” into the Tribuna room where the statue is displayed.
LED spotlights placed above the statue create an immersive experience by enveloping the David in light, while the rest of the room remains in the background.
The color of the light subtly changes throughout the day, and the spotlights vary in warmth, allowing visitors to see different perspectives of the statue as they move around.
The recent renovation of the Accademia Gallery has not only transformed the David but also improved the lighting and appearance of other artworks in different rooms. The beige walls have been painted in colors that enhance the paintings, making them more vibrant and noticeable.
The renovation of the Accademia Gallery, including the new lighting system, has attracted more attention to the paintings and redistributed the crowds within the museum.
Visitors have discovered new details in the artwork that were previously overlooked due to poor lighting, such as the gold dots in halos and hidden pearls.
The renovations have not only enhanced the visual experience but also reduced the museum’s electricity consumption by approximately 80%.
The museum revamp also includes the Gipsoteca, which has been renovated with air conditioning, new layouts, and powder blue walls. These changes have turned the previously neglected space into an enjoyable area for visitors.
Local residents are now rediscovering the Accademia Gallery, which was previously seen as a tourist destination. The museum is being appreciated for its valuable and visible works of art.
The complete renovation of the Accademia Gallery, including the David and the Gipsoteca, has brought the museum into the 21st century while preserving its historical charm.
