Parthenon pediments

Where is the Parthenon located?

In the Athenian Acropolis

When are the pediments of the Parthenon dated to?

C.437-432 BC, High classical period

How long is each pediment?

27m long

How high is each pediment?

3.5m high

What material are the figures made from?

Pentellic marble

What is the founding myth on the east pediment of the Parthenon?

The Birth of Athene from Zeus’ head

How does the myth on the east pediment fit the unity of theme?

Athene is the patron goddess of Athens and the Parthenon

What are the names of the figures in this section of the pediment from left to right?

Hestia→ Dione→ Aphrodite

How is detail created in this section of the east pediment? (4 POINTS)

• The deeply carved complex drapery created through the use of meddling lines on the legs to reveal the shape of the anatomy beneath the drapery

• The transparency across Aphrodites upper torso and the bare female shoulder

• Aphrodite’s realistic reclining pose characterises her and fills the awkward acute corner→ Unity of scale

• Hestia’s pose is turned towards the centre with her shoulders facing inwards drawing focus on the central narrative

How is detail created in this section of the east pediment?

• The modelling lines on the drapery of the women observing create deep fold and intricate catenary shapes highlighting their physicality

• In the left standing figure the motion lines on the lower drapery and billowing himation convey complex movement as she moves left whilst simultaneously Turing towards the centre to watch the birth of Athene- Her body language reacts to the birth of Athene

How is detail created in the figure of Dionysus on the East pediment? (3 POINTS)

• He fits the acute corner→ watching the sun rise

• Realistic reactive anatomy that reacts the reclined pose e.g. smooth integrated pectorals and abdominals

• Realistic reclining pose fits awkward space and characterises him as leisurely and relaxed

What is the significance of the sun god Helios rising in the left corner of the east pediment?

• Strain in his arms as he is pulled by the horses e.g. exaggerated/defined tendons and muscularture

• Represents the rising sun with the pediment floor being the horizon- Sets the scene, dawn, on Athene’s birthday

What is the significance of the horse of Selene on the right side of the east pediment?

• Flared nostrils and a gaping mouth

• The tired horse if the moon god descends representing dusk as the moon rises and the sun lowers

What is the founding myth on the west pediment?

Poseidon and Athene compete for the patronage of Athens. Poseidon offers water and strikes the Acropolis with his trident, producing a salt water spring. Athene wins the contest by offering the Athenians an olive tree. Athene’s sacred olive tree was then established on the Acropolis.

How does the myth on the West pediment fit the unity of theme?

• Poseidon and the salt spring: The Athenians had a very strong navy

• Athene and the olive tree: The Parthenon was dedicated to Athene and Athenians were known for growing olives

How is detail created on the figure of Poseidon on the west pediment?

• Poseidons over life size torso pints to the original statue filling 3.5m high apex

• Impressive anatomy e.g. large biceps

Scholarly Quote

What does Harris and Zucker say about the drapery techniques on the east pediment?

‘This is the Phidian style that we associate with this Classical moment in Ancient Greece…There’s a nobility and a sense of luxury’