There is a distinct genre of military portraits from the fifth century BCE, particularly in Athens. This one has been called Perikles and Kimon in its time, though it is probably an idealised representation rather than an individual general’s portrait.

These men were called strategoi. They were elected, and held a position that was part military leader, part statesman and part magistrate. Kimon (512-449 BCE) helped form the Delian league, a military alliance dominated by Athens which not only ensured security but also brought great wealth to Athens, particularly later under Perikles (495-429 BCE)