This majestic bust is modelled after one of the horses heads from the right angle corner chariot group, carved on the east pediment of the Parthenon (447-432 BC). The free-standing sculpture of these two pediments (east and west) was concieved by Pheidas and executed in the later peroid between 437 to 432 BC. The dynamic composition illustrates the charioteer Selene, moon goddess, being drawn downwards by the her team of regal horses. Thus alluding to the setting of the sun and calming of night, complimenting the more rigorous rising of the sun represented in the opposing corner.
COMPARATIVE LITERATURE
John Boardman Greek Sculpture, The Classical Period 1985 Thames and Hudson, page 101, figure 78.