Parthenon Frieze _ North XXXVI, 96-99

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The North frieze is divided between two museums: half resides at the British Museum and the other half can be found at the Acropolis museum. The total length of this impressive frieze measures 58.70 meters from start to finish. Scenes on the north frieze begin in the northwest corner of the opisthonaos as a natural continuation of the procession that has already started on the west side, flowing seamlessly from block N XLVII to block N I. As the action unfolds, it gradually gains momentum and accelerates from quiet preparation into a lively gallop. Without regard for block divisions, horsemen are depicted riding in groups of seven or eight, with horses overlapping each other. The continuous flow of horses and riders is momentarily interrupted only by the marshal on block XXXIV. Variety is maintained through differences in garment, stance, and gesture among the most striking horsemen, as well as the occasional depiction of a man turning to look back. This artistic approach skillfully avoids monotony.