Pediment Sculpture

The pediment in the context of architecture is typically the upper triangular portion of a building that is made in classical style. It is seen as a decorative element that surmounts a portico consisting of columns. While the metopes of the Parthenon also consist of reliefs, the sculptures in the pediment are larger and more notable. The location of the pediment is above the triglyphs and metopes on the front of the Parthenon. The West face of the building shows the competition between Poseidon and Athena to determine the right to become the patron deity of Athens. On the East face, we see the pediment sculptures depicting a scene of Athena being birthed out of Zeus’s head. While the took much damage from war and historical events, there is a general idea of what was shown on the pediment by the Athenians.

historical Setting

Work began on the structure in 447 BC, at this time the Empire was at the peak of its power. While at the time of its completion, the structure reflected the physical and visible rise of the Athenian Imperial power. The structure also complimented the influence of the Athenian politician Pericles who contributed in its construction. It was known by everyone at this point that Athens was not just head of Greek defense but also an imperial master over all other Greek States.

The decision was made by the Athenians in 454 BC to move the League treasury away from the Panhellenic sanctuary at Delos to the Acropolis site pointing in the same direction. This was because the Parthenon was constructed through league funds, and because of this, they figured the building would be taken as an expression of Athenian confidence after gaining power. Though the Persians had distrusted the other temples on this site, rebuilding them not only gave Athenians gratitude, but also allowed the site to become more valuable and a place of worship.