Which Renaissance artist is known for his sculptures such as David and the Pietà?

Michelangelo is renowned for his magnificent sculptures, most notably "David" and the "Pietà." "David" represents the biblical hero in a moment of contemplation, showcasing the ideal human form and an understanding of anatomy that was revolutionary for its time. This marble statue exemplifies the Renaissance focus on humanism, where the beauty and potential of the human body were celebrated.

The "Pietà," another of Michelangelo's masterpieces, depicts the Virgin Mary holding the lifeless body of Christ. This work is characterized by its emotional intensity and intricate detail, capturing a moment of profound sorrow with remarkable grace. Michelangelo's ability to convey complex emotions through marble solidified his reputation as one of the foremost sculptors of the Renaissance.

While Leonardo da Vinci made significant contributions to painting and invention, his sculptural works are not as recognized as Michelangelo's. Raphael was primarily a painter known for his Madonnas and large-scale artworks in the Vatican. Donatello, although an influential sculptor in the early Renaissance who created his own version of David, does not have the same level of association with the "Pietà," which is uniquely tied to Michelangelo. Thus, the mastery and impact of Michelangelo's contributions firmly establish him as the correct answer.