Block XXXIII Parthenon

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The Marble relief (Block XXXIII) from the North frieze of the Parthenon is a striking depiction of the procession of the Panathenaic festival, commemorating the birthday of the goddess Athena with grandeur. This particular block showcases three riders whose heads, unfortunately, are missing. The surface of the block has been severely corroded by micro-organisms, a common issue plaguing much of the North frieze cavalcade. One rider dons body armour over a short tunic, while another wears a tunic belted at the waist. The horsemen in the cavalcade on the North frieze are arranged in overlapping phalanxes, each one slightly different from the next. This irregular division creates a visually striking effect. Among the riders of the North frieze, there is considerable variation in both composition and dress. Some are draped in elaborate mantles and tunics, while others wear minimal attire. Some ride bareheaded, whereas others don distinctive caps. Metal reins were once inserted into drill-holes, but unfortunately, they have since been lost to time.