Centaur over a Lapith

myminifactory

This piece is taken from the south side of the Pantheon, an iconic structure in classical architecture. The metope is a rectangular architectural element often adorned with painted or sculptural decoration. This particular metope stands out as one of the most famous examples. It's one of 92 metopes that make up the Parthenon marbles, some of which vividly depict the battle between the Centaurs and the Lapiths. The story is rooted in Greek mythology, telling us how the Lapiths invited the Centaurs to their king's wedding, Pirithous'. During the celebration, however, the Centaurs attempted to kidnap the bride, Hippodamia, and her friends, sparking a great battle that was only won by the Lapiths with divine intervention.