He is credited with having brought classicism to the peak of perfection, supposedly epitomized by the sculptural decoration of the Parthenon. Herein lies a paradox. Direct testimonies of other of his works, like the Athena Parthenos, illustrate a complete discrepancy with the restraint and measure of classicism with which the man is credited. This slab of the frieze represents a scene from the Panathenaic procession which took place with special solemnity every four years in honour of Athena. Young aristocrats participated in it with a cavalcade of which the scene is part.
Necks are mightier, legs daintier etc.
On the contrary, the rider's drapery expresses, with simplicity, movement and attitudes taken by the horsemen. Extensive damage to face of stableman. Original of Pentelic marble in situ on the Parthenon, Acropolis, Athens. From the west frieze depicting a part of the Panathenaic procession. The well composed and structured group, a difficult task on a relief, as well as the adroitly articulated bodies and poses, bear witness to the heightened skills, experience and sensitivity of classicism.