Centauromachy
conceptThe Centauromachy was the famous battle between the Lapiths and the Centaurs at the wedding of Pirithous — it became Greek art's favourite symbol for the clash between civilisation and barbarism.
The Myth
At the wedding feast of Pirithous and Hippodamia, the centaurs drank too much wine and attempted to abduct the bride and other women. The Lapiths fought back, led by Theseus and Pirithous. The battle became one of the most depicted scenes in Greek art — on the Parthenon metopes, the temple of Zeus at Olympia, and countless vases. It symbolised the triumph of Greek order over foreign chaos, reason over animal nature.
Symbols
Fun Fact
The Centauromachy on the Parthenon was understood as an allegory for Athens' victory over Persia — order defeating chaos.
Explore Further
Olympia
placeOlympia was the sanctuary in the Peloponnese where the ancient Olympic Games were held every four...
Theseus
heroThe hero who navigated the Labyrinth, slew the Minotaur, and became the legendary king of Athens....
Zeus
godSupreme ruler of the Olympian gods and lord of the sky. Zeus overthrew his father Kronos and...
Aegis
conceptThe aegis was a divine shield or breastplate belonging to Zeus and wielded by Athena, fringed with...
Aidos
conceptAidos was the Greek concept of shame, reverence, and the inner sense of propriety that restrained...
Ajax (Shield)
conceptAjax's shield was a massive tower shield of seven ox-hides layered with bronze — the largest...