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Athena Group for the Pergamon Frieze
Athena Group for the Pergamon Frieze
Athena Group for the Pergamon Frieze

Athena Group for the Pergamon Frieze

Artist
Associated
Date180-159 BC
Mediumplaster cast
ClassificationsSculptures
DimensionsOverall: Height: 271 cm, Width: 250.5 cm, Depth: 43 cm
AcquisitionPresented in 1905 by John Fyfe.
LocationView by Appointment
Object numberABDAG004753
About MeDetail from the Great Frieze of the Pergamon Altar, 180-159 BC. The original marble frieze, which is 113 metres long, belonged to the Zeus altar at Pergamon and is now in Berlin. It depicts the 'gigantomachy'; the struggle between the gods and the giants.

The Athena group shows the goddess Athena victorious over the giants. She carries a shield on her left arm and with her right hand grasps the hair of a fallen giant. The mother of the giants, Gaia (the Earth) rises from the depths, imploring mercy for her sons. The winged goddess of Victory holds a wreath which she is about to put on the head of Athena.

More About Me
This section depicts Athena, victorious over the giants, carrying a shield and the hair of a fallen giant whilst the winged goddess Victory holds a wreath for Athena’s head.