| Artist | |
|---|---|
| Date | 1428–1438 (original), 1907 (cast) |
| Object type | plaster cast |
| Medium, technique | plaster cast |
| Dimensions | 98 × 78 × 12 cm |
| Inventory number | Rg.176 |
| Collection | Sculptures |
| On view | National Museum Conservation and Storage Centre, Visible Storage |
In 1428, Donatello and Michelozzo (1396–1472) were jointly commissioned to make the exterior pulpit of Prato Cathedral. Michelozzo created the architectural structure of the pulpit, while Donatello designed and carved its ornamentation. The seven reliefs decorating the pulpit – plaster casts of two were commissioned by the Museum of Fine Arts – depict putti dancing and playing instruments. The carvings are probably based on Psalm 150 and show angels praising God in the celestial sphere. The enraptured dancing figures might have been inspired by reliefs on Roman sarcophagi since Donatello visited Rome several times in this period, where he had the opportunity to study antique sculpture.
This record is subject to revision due to ongoing research.
