Bust from prophet statue, Lo Zuccone

myminifactory

This marble bust is a cropped version of a full-figure sculpture depicting the Biblical prophet Habakkuk. Commissioned for the Duomo in Florence, it was completed between 1423 and 1425. The name Zuccone originates from the long and angular shape of the figure's head, translating to 'Pumpkin' in Italian. The life-like statue is fraught with tension, clad in flowing robes typical of Donatello's prophets. His face is tilted slightly down, giving the figure a humble expression on his gaunt face. Habakkuk's legend appears in the Hebrew Bible. Very little information is revealed about the prophet, allowing Donatello more artistic freedom than usual for statues with clearly defined histories. Habakkuk's legacy in text was unusual, as he questioned God and the injustices allowed by God. This likely inspired Donatello when creating his statue's melancholy and questioning eyes. Lo Zuccone is reportedly one of Donatello's favorite pieces. Vasari later recounted Donatello's affection for the statue, stating that while working, Donatello would stare at Zuccone's face muttering, "Speak, damn you, speak!"