Athena Parthenos

Definition

Athena Parthenos is a monumental statue of the goddess Athena, created by the sculptor Phidias in the 5th century BCE, which once stood in the Parthenon in Athens. This iconic representation of Athena was a symbol of the city's power and artistic achievement, showcasing the ideals of classical Greek art, particularly in sculpture. The statue exemplified the use of gold and ivory (chryselephantine) and depicted Athena as a fully armored warrior goddess, representing wisdom, warfare, and civic responsibility.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The original statue of Athena Parthenos stood about 38 feet tall and was made from gold and ivory over a wooden frame.
2. The statue featured intricate details such as a shield decorated with mythological scenes and a unique headdress called a 'phrygian cap.'
3. The Athena Parthenos was not only a work of art but also served religious purposes, being central to the worship of Athena in Athens.
4. The statue was housed within the Parthenon, which itself is an architectural marvel and an enduring symbol of Ancient Greece.
5. A Roman copy of Athena Parthenos exists today, allowing us to understand its appearance and significance in ancient Greek culture.

Review Questions

• How does Athena Parthenos reflect the artistic ideals of classical Greek sculpture during its time?
  • Athena Parthenos embodies classical Greek artistic ideals through its grand scale, intricate details, and use of chryselephantine materials. The statue showcases a sense of harmony, balance, and proportion that are hallmarks of classical art. Additionally, its depiction of Athena as a powerful warrior goddess emphasizes themes of civic pride and cultural identity in Athens during the 5th century BCE.
• What were the religious and cultural significances of housing the Athena Parthenos in the Parthenon?
  • Housing Athena Parthenos in the Parthenon underscored both the religious devotion of Athenians to their patron goddess and the cultural importance of Athens as a center of art and democracy. The statue not only served as a focal point for worship but also symbolized Athenian power and identity. The grandeur of both the statue and its temple reflected Athens' position as a leading city-state in ancient Greece.
• Evaluate how the techniques used in creating Athena Parthenos influenced later sculpture practices in Western art.
  • The techniques used to create Athena Parthenos, particularly the chryselephantine method combining gold and ivory, set a precedent for later Western sculpture that sought to capture grandeur and opulence. This approach influenced Renaissance artists who admired classical ideals and sought to replicate similar techniques in their works. The emphasis on idealized forms and intricate detailing established by Phidias continues to resonate in Western art history, highlighting a lasting legacy that bridges ancient practices with modern interpretations.

Related terms

Phidias: A renowned ancient Greek sculptor and architect, Phidias is best known for creating the statue of Athena Parthenos and the statue of Zeus at Olympia, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Chryselephantine: A technique used in ancient Greek sculpture that combined gold and ivory to create luxurious statues, exemplified by the Athena Parthenos.

Parthenon: A temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, located on the Acropolis of Athens, which housed the statue of Athena Parthenos and served as a symbol of Athenian democracy and culture.