Elgin Marbles
Introduction
The Elgin Marbles, also known as the Parthenon Marbles, are a collection of classical Greek marble sculptures and architectural pieces that were originally part of the Parthenon and other buildings on the Acropolis of Athens. These artifacts were acquired by Thomas Bruce, 7th Earl of Elgin, during the early 19th century and are currently housed in the British Museum in London. The Elgin Marbles have been a subject of intense debate and controversy, particularly regarding their removal from Greece and the ongoing discussions about their repatriation.
Historical Context
The Parthenon
The Parthenon, a temple dedicated to the goddess Athena, was constructed between 447 and 432 BCE during the height of the Athenian Empire. It is considered a masterpiece of classical architecture and an enduring symbol of Ancient Greece. The temple's decorative sculptures, including the frieze, metopes, and pediments, were created under the direction of the sculptor Phidias, one of the most renowned artists of the time.
The Ottoman Empire and the Acropolis
By the late 17th century, Greece was part of the Ottoman Empire, and the Acropolis served various functions, including as a military fortress. The Parthenon itself was used as a mosque and suffered significant damage during the Venetian siege of Athens in 1687, when an explosion caused by a direct hit on the gunpowder stored inside the temple led to the destruction of much of the structure.
Acquisition by Lord Elgin
Diplomatic Context
In the early 19th century, Thomas Bruce, the 7th Earl of Elgin, was appointed as the British ambassador to the Ottoman Empire. During his tenure, he sought permission from the Ottoman authorities to document and remove sculptures from the Acropolis. The legality of this permission, often referred to as a firman, has been a point of contention, as the original document has not survived, and its exact terms remain unclear.
Removal and Transportation
Between 1801 and 1812, Elgin's agents removed approximately half of the surviving sculptures from the Parthenon, as well as other pieces from the Acropolis. These artifacts were transported to Britain, a process fraught with logistical challenges and financial strain for Elgin. The marbles were eventually purchased by the British government in 1816 and placed in the British Museum, where they remain to this day.
Description of the Elgin Marbles
The Frieze
The Parthenon frieze is a continuous band of sculptural relief that originally encircled the upper part of the temple's inner chamber. It depicts the Panathenaic Procession, a ceremonial event held in honor of Athena. The frieze is notable for its intricate depiction of human figures and animals, showcasing the high level of skill achieved by classical Greek sculptors.
The Metopes
The metopes are square panels that adorned the exterior of the Parthenon's colonnade. Each metope features a high-relief sculpture depicting scenes from Greek mythology, including battles between the Lapiths and Centaurs, the Gigantomachy, and the Amazonomachy. These scenes symbolize the triumph of order over chaos and civilization over barbarism.
The Pediments
The pediments are the triangular gables at each end of the Parthenon, filled with large-scale sculptures. The east pediment illustrates the birth of Athena from the head of Zeus, while the west pediment depicts the contest between Athena and Poseidon for the patronage of Athens. These sculptures are renowned for their dynamic composition and expressive detail.
Controversy and Debate
Legal and Ethical Issues
The acquisition of the Elgin Marbles has been a subject of legal and ethical debate. Critics argue that the removal of the marbles was an act of cultural vandalism, while supporters claim that Elgin acted within the legal framework of his time. The absence of the original firman complicates the legal arguments, leaving room for differing interpretations.
Repatriation Efforts
The Greek government has repeatedly requested the return of the Elgin Marbles, arguing that they are an integral part of Greece's cultural heritage. The British Museum, however, maintains that the marbles were acquired legally and that their presence in London allows for a wider audience to appreciate them. The debate over repatriation raises broader questions about the ownership and stewardship of cultural artifacts.
Conservation and Display
Conservation Efforts
The Elgin Marbles have undergone various conservation efforts since their arrival in Britain. In the 1930s, a controversial cleaning process using abrasive materials caused damage to some of the sculptures, leading to criticism of the museum's conservation practices. Modern conservation efforts focus on preserving the marbles' integrity while minimizing further damage.
Display in the British Museum
The Elgin Marbles are displayed in the British Museum's Duveen Gallery, named after the art dealer Joseph Duveen, who funded its construction. The gallery's design aims to replicate the original setting of the Parthenon, allowing visitors to appreciate the marbles in a context reminiscent of their original placement.
Cultural Significance
Influence on Western Art
The Elgin Marbles have had a profound influence on Western art and architecture, inspiring generations of artists and architects. Their classical forms and aesthetic principles have been emulated in various artistic movements, including Neoclassicism and the Renaissance.
Symbol of Cultural Heritage
Beyond their artistic value, the Elgin Marbles are emblematic of broader issues related to cultural heritage and identity. They serve as a focal point for discussions about the preservation and restitution of cultural property, highlighting the complex interplay between history, politics, and cultural diplomacy.