Athena Promachos, the so-called Dresden Pallas

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This is an extraordinary example of a pseudo-archaic Athena Promachos, more commonly known as the Dresden Pallas. It showcases the Roman penchant for "archaising," creating sculptures in imitation of early Greek Archaic style. Archaising sculpture is distinguished by a blend of stylistic interpretations from the Archaic period, such as the long parallel folds of clothing that are characteristic of this era. The features on display are eclectic and highly stylised, making it impossible to believe these sculptures were created during the actual Archaic period. Pallas is the Roman equivalent of Athena, a goddess revered in ancient Greek mythology. The striding pose brandishing a spear aloft, known as promachos, was a frequently depicted subject on painted pots from earlier centuries. A colossal statue of Athena Promachos stood proudly on the Athenian Acropolis, a testament to the enduring legacy of this iconic figure. The Dresden Pallas differs significantly from its classical counterpart, the Herculaneum Pallas. Running down the centre of the figure's skirt are a series of panels depicting intense fight scenes, likely a nod to the Parthenon where the original statue would have stood in close proximity.