Donatello (c. 1386-1466), the greatest sculptor before Michelangelo, was the most influential artist of the fifteenth century. Painters and practically every later sculptor, including Michelangelo, were deeply indebted to him. Much of later fifteenth-century painting in Florence stems from his work, and his influence extended to Venice. His heroic style created a new humanism that was a hallmark of the Renaissance.

Written by Dr. Charles Avery, an authority on European sculpture, this concise survey explores Donatello's life and work for the general reader, tourist, or student. It gives a balanced coverage of his sculpture in different media and in the different cities of Italy and of the political, social, and religious background against which Donatello's contribution to Renaissance sculpture should be seen.