South Metope XXXII is a notable fragment of the Parthenon Marbles, also known as the Elgin Marbles. Originating from Athens, Greece between 447-438 BCE, this marble piece was relocated and is currently housed by the British Museum. The South Metope XXXII, part of a series of metopes measuring roughly 1.2 meters squared, was formerly displayed on the outer facade of the Parthenon on the Acropolis in Athens.
The South Metope XXXII, meticulously crafted from Pentelic marble, visually narrates the Centauromachy - the mythical conflict between the Lapiths and Centaurs. The narrative is recurrent throughout numerous metopes, showcasing episodes from the violent wedding feast of the Lapith king, Pirithous. This feast is traditionally considered as a metaphor for Athens' civilizing influence, embodied by the Lapiths, exerting dominance over the disorder and violence symbolized by the Centaurs.
The scene portrayed on South Metope XXXII includes a Lapith victoriously posed over a Centaur, distinguished by his Greek appearance and hairstyle. The composition of these figures is skillfully presented to imbue the relief with depth and perspective. The metope effectively encompasses and communicates the tumult, energy, and violence integral to the mythical conflict, maintaining its allegorical depth.
The marble figures are executed in high relief, granting the image an increased sense of realism. Despite evident weathering and erosion that has diminished some of the finer elements on the figure, the sculpture maintains an exceptional degree of anatomical accuracy and musculature, characteristic of the expert craftsmanship of the Elgin Marbles.
