They are clearly displayed as a unified whole. It is apparent that the metopes were constructed first on the ground and later erected, followed by the frieze, and finally the pediments. The metopes have an incredible specificity of detail, such as the wrinkles on the centaurs and the muscle curvature of the animals. Animals, such as the cow shown in the frieze, enhance the qualities of naturalism with their ponderous motions, sleek bodies, and powerful bones. The metopes vary, being horizontal, oblique, vertical, consecutively folded, or displayed with freedom of motion.
Flat surfaces are uncommon in the sculpture, replaced by carved folds.
Once shown by wavy lines, the folds used in the sculptures of the Parthenon are carved one or two inches deep into the marble . The relief is carved deeper in the top than in the bottom. Complicated veins of a horse's head along with the detailed flesh and bone were carefully sculpted with light and shadow into the frieze. With their lively, precisely sculpted rhythm, few structures can compare to the riders displayed on the southern frieze of the Parthenon. A horse head from the frieze, drawn by A. Russell.