The East Pediment of the Parthenon, currently located in the British Museum, is a significant artifact from 5th century BC Greece. Primarily constructed from marble, it delivers an interpretation of Greek mythological events within an architectural context, demonstrating an advanced knowledge of stone masonry. The pediment's original dimensions would have reached around 92 feet, meant to embellish the famous Athenian Parthenon.
Produced under the guiding hand of noted Athenian sculptor Phidias and his associates, the artwork chronicles the birth of Athena from her father Zeus's head. Populated with an array of divine figures, the sculpture communicates surprise, suspense, and interest through its varied dramatic characterizations. Individually, these figures embody vitality and dynamism, merging together to craft a resonant visual composition. The work's overall subject matter is the fully-grown, armored Athena emerging from Zeus's forehead.
Over time, the artwork inevitably accumulated damages, and numerous figures have either been fragmented or entirely vanished. Notwithstanding its dilapidated condition, the remaining portions continue to display thorough realism in character presentation. Aspects such as physical muscle structures, garments' drapery, and facial expressions evince skilled and precise carving approaches.
During the 3rd century AD, during Elagabalus's reign as Roman Emperor, a fire severely damaged the Parthenon and its affiliated artworks. By the 17th century, the majority of the pediment had been destroyed. The surviving parts, which include various body and facial segments smaller in comparison to central figures but equally expressive, were taken by Lord Elgin in 1801. Presently known as the Elgin Marbles, these marble remains represent a continuous disagreement between Greece and Britain.
