This is the equestrian bronze sculpture of Paduan General of Venetian army (condottieri) Erasmo Da Narni (GATTAMELATA) made by Donatello in 1443-53. It is installed on a high marbal base in front of the church of Sant’ Antonio in Padua. If you want to characterize one image in Italian Renaissance then that would be self made condottieri. These condottieri had their own army and they fight for any state, any city whoever is paying them.

Donatello’s source of this sculpture was two Roman bronze equestrian portraits. He must have seen these two during his stay in Roam. Equestrian Monuments of ancient Roam demonstrate Emperor’s bravery, nobility and authority. The horse symbolized the passion and man’s physical animal nature. Horsemanship was very important skill to learn in past.

When you look at the sculpture closely, the man’s who is riding on horse has sunken cheeks, sagging jaw, ropy neck and stern but sad expression. These all expression suggests that warrior grown old and tired of constant need for military vigilance and rapid response.
Donatello was always appreciated for sculpting human emotions and expression in his work. And this equestrian sculpture is great example of it.