Michelangelo's David -- The central rotunda of the gallery at the Accademia di Belle Arti was especially built by De Fabris in 1882 to exhibit Michelangelo's 1504 masterpiece -- and to protect it from vandals and the elements.  A copy by Arrighetti has been standing in the statue's original spot since 1873, at the main entrance of the Palazzo Vecchio in the Piazza della Signoria. 

So absolute is David's fame, even a long-scheduled bath will stir interest and controversy. The Marbled Wonder will celebrate his 500th birthday with a rejuvenating wash of distilled water, to the objections of many who wish him to show his age. See the 24 July 2003 BBC report here.

This photo was taken with the Canon Pro70 digital camera.