Material used to plate the skin of the Parthenon Athena and the statue of Zeus at Olympia NYT crossword clue

The clue “Material used to plate the skin of the Parthenon Athena and the statue of Zeus at Olympia” points to the answer IVORY.

Both the Athena Parthenos and the Statue of Zeus at Olympia were monumental chryselephantine sculptures crafted by the renowned sculptor Phidias in the 5th century BCE. The term chryselephantine derives from the Greek words chrysos (gold) and elephantinos (ivory), indicating that these statues were constructed using gold and ivory over wooden frameworks. Specifically, ivory was employed to represent the exposed flesh areas of the deities, such as the face and arms, while gold adorned their garments and accessories.

These masterpieces exemplify the grandeur and artistic excellence of ancient Greek sculpture, combining opulent materials with intricate craftsmanship. Their creation not only showcased the wealth and devotion of the city-states that commissioned them but also left a lasting legacy in the history of art and culture.