The Court of David
This open-air space is located on a hilltop between Forest Lawn Museum and the Court of Freedom. It features a full-scale bronze replica of Michelangelo’s David, which was added in November 2021. The artwork is 17 feet tall and was cast at the world-renowned Mariani Foundry in Pietrasanta, Italy. Forest Lawn first acquired a marble replica of Michelangelo’s David in 1937. Unfortunately, the statue – along with subsequent marble replicas – was toppled by seismic activity. The new bronze statue is designed to withstand earthquakes.
A series of three bronze bas-relief plaques were added to the Court of David in the 1930s to provide educational context for the sculpture. Italian artist Ermenegildo Luppi (1877-1937) was commissioned to create The David Panels which depict: 1) David’s encounter with Goliath; 2) Michelangelo’s presentation of his David sculpture to his Florentine patrons; and 3) an interpretation of King David’s 23rd Psalm showing his fearless, faith-filled entry into heaven.
The Court of David was revamped in 2021 when the bronze David was installed. Three marble bas-relief sculptures were added, along with new marble paving. The ornate paving features an inlaid geometric design that is composed of an eight-pointed star and radiating lines. Forest Lawn found inspiration in the Piazza del Campidoglio, a public space in Rome designed by Michelangelo almost 500 years ago, which has a similar geometric pattern.
The Court of David is open daily from 8 AM until sunset. For more information about the Court of David or to schedule a free Forest Lawn Art Tour, email museum@forestlawn.com.