David

David is a bronze sculpture by Swedish artist Ivar Johnsson, displayed beside Lake Zurich in Switzerland. This figure belongs to Zurich’s public art landscape.

Johnsson presents the biblical hero after victory, seated on his left knee with a sword in hand. His right foot rests on Goliath’s severed head.

The direct scene focuses on triumph rather than the earlier sling attack described in the biblical story. The bronze figure meets a tall marble Doric column.

Its classical form reflects Swedish neo-classicism and the artistic exchange between Sweden and Switzerland. Johnsson’s signature and year mark the pedestal.

The sculpture also connects Zurich’s lakeside setting with European art movements of the early twentieth century. Linden trees line the lakeside setting around David.

The work gained international recognition at the Paris Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes, where it received the Grand Prix. A Zurich version followed the Paris exhibition’s success.

The Zurich sculpture links a dramatic biblical narrative with the city’s appreciation for art in public spaces. Its scale gives the lakeside setting presence.

David remains a striking landmark beside Lake Zurich.