Which statement best describes Donatello's contribution to sculpture?

• A. He made sculptures more realistic by carving natural postures and expressions.
• B. He invented clay modeling techniques.
• C. He introduced color to statues.
• D. He used bronze exclusively for sculptures.

Answer: (A)

Donatello helped sculpture move toward realism by giving figures natural postures and expressive qualities. He studied classical sculpture and pushed beyond the stiff, formulaic forms of the medieval era, crafting figures with believable weight, balanced yet dynamic stances, and subtle emotional nuance. This shift toward lifelike presence and psychological depth is what marks his major contribution to Renaissance sculpture, as seen in works like David and other bronze or marble statues where the human character feels clearly individualized. He didn’t invent clay modeling techniques, and color on statues wasn’t his landmark achievement, nor did he work exclusively in bronze—his versatility across materials underlines that realism, not a single material or technique, was his hallmark.