Parthenon Frieze _ West V, 9-10

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Since its removal from the monument in 1993 , the west frieze has been stored securely within the Acropolis Museum, except for blocks I and II, which remain on display at the British Museum. The west frieze is comprised of sixteen blocks averaging 1.40 m. in length, with blocks I and XVI standing out as only 0.60 m. long due to their narrow design, representing the sides of the north and south blocks. Depicted vividly on the frieze is the meticulous preparation for the Panathenaic procession of horsemen at the Kerameikos. Each block showcases one to three figures at most, as well as up to two horses in motion, punctuated by individuals standing still, serving as central axes within the composition. Blocks with serene scenes are strategically placed alongside those depicting action-filled scenes. The attire of the horsemen exhibits a wide range of styles, allowing some to interpret this variety as a way to differentiate between Attica's 10 or 4 tribes. Some riders appear nude, while others wear a short belted chiton or exomis, donning a chlamys and petasos for added protection; still others sport cuirass and helmet, reflecting the diverse garb of Greece's regions, such as Macedonia or Thrace, featuring coarse cloth chitons and petasos. Metalwork in bronze adorns the horses' bridles and riders' equipment.