Athena Gilding Process
The Athena statue in Nashville's Parthenon is in the process of being gilded in 23.75 karat gold leaf by local gilder Lou Reed. The statue was originally completed by artist Alan LeQuire in May of 1990. Twelve years later, the statue is receiving her gold touches including her dress, helmet and other details.
The gilding project is the final effort to replicate the long-missing statue of Athena in the Parthenon in Athens. The ancient statue disappeared around 400 A.D. The sculptor Pheidias created the statue on a wood framework of gold plates (1/16" to 1/8" thick) and ivory.
Alan LeQuire will paint Athena's skin to imitate the ivory color. The project is estimated to take four months to complete.
The Parthenon is open during regular business hours including the Athena area. Visitors will be able to see the gilders working most Tuesdays-Fridays.