This artifact is a reconstruction of the western pediment of the Parthenon, a significant example of ancient Greek architecture. Central to the reconstruction are the figures of Athena and Poseidon, featured midst a contest for Athens' patronage, the former offering an olive tree and the latter striking the earth with a trident.
The reconstructed pediment spans an approximate length of 27 meters, comprising eleven meticulously assembled marble sculptures. Various other characters surround the core scene, each sculpted in an array of poses ranging from passive to intense action.
Arguably, the most analyzed aspects of the art piece are the smaller figures located on either side of the primary scene, potentially representing royal figures such as Kekrops and his daughters. Other theoretical depictions include a chariot representing the day (Hemera) on the east, and either the setting sun (Hesperos) or the night (Nyx) on the west end.
The reconstruction is attributed to Phidias and his associates, created approximately between 438-432 BCE. This artifact displays the developed expressions and naturalistic motifs characteristic of the Late Classical Period, including the detailed human anatomy, individualized attributes for each character, and elaborate drapery.
Despite being incomplete due to unrecoverable damages and lost sculptures, the extant aspects offer vivid representation of the original theme. The balance between depicted entities invokes Athens' self-image as the epitome of civilization and the divine role in human affairs.
