Phidias

Phidias

Sculptor

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Quick Facts

Statue of Zeus at Olympia
Parthenon sculptures

Sculptor of Zeus at Olympia. Created gods in marble that still define beauty.

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Life Journey

480 BCBorn in Athens, Greece

Phidias is born in Athens, Greece, to a family of sculptors and artists.

460 BCBegins Apprenticeship

At the age of 20, Phidias begins his apprenticeship under the renowned sculptor Hegias, learning the craft of sculpture and architecture.

450 BCFirst Major Commission

Phidias receives his first major commission to create a bronze statue of Athena Promachos for the Acropolis in Athens.

447 BCBegins Work on Parthenon

Phidias is appointed the chief sculptor and artistic supervisor for the construction of the Parthenon, overseeing the creation of its iconic sculptures and friezes.

440 BCCompletes Parthenon Friezes

Phidias completes the intricate friezes and sculptures adorning the Parthenon, including the famous Panathenaic Procession and the Battle of the Centaurs.

435 BCDesigns Statue of Zeus

Phidias begins designing the colossal statue of Zeus for the Temple of Zeus at Olympia, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

432 BCStatue of Zeus Unveiled

The statue of Zeus, one of Phidias' most celebrated works, is unveiled at the Temple of Zeus in Olympia, attracting visitors from across the Greek world.

425 BCWorks on Temple of Athena Nike

Phidias is commissioned to create sculptures for the Temple of Athena Nike on the Acropolis, further cementing his reputation as a master sculptor.

420 BCPolitical Accusations

Phidias faces political accusations and trials, likely due to his close association with Pericles, but the charges are eventually dismissed.

415 BCRetirement and Reflection

Phidias retires from active sculpting and spends his later years reflecting on his life's work and mentoring younger artists.

410 BCDeath in Athens

Phidias dies in Athens, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest sculptors and architects of the ancient world.

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