Greek Winged Victory Of Samothrace S

This iconic statue from ancient Greece is also known as the Winged Victory. It depicts the Greek goddess Nike, the personification of victory.
The statue stood in the sanctuary for the Great Gods (Theoi Megaloi) on the small island of Samothrace in the Aegean Sea, which attracted many visitors in ancient times with the mysterious religious rites performed there.
What makes the artistic value so special is its impressive dynamism and drama. The sculpture shows the goddess with her wings spread, while standing on the prow of a ship. The use of this active, almost fleeting pose creates a sense of movement and power. The way the idea of speed and energy is depicted is particularly clever. It evokes awe and admiration for this goddess of victory.

The artistic interest of this sculpture also lies in the sophisticated treatment of the marble. The draping of the robe is perfectly natural down to the smallest detail. The technical skill with which the movement has been sculpted is unprecedented.
The right wing of the statue, as now on display in the Louvre, was later reconstructed. Originally, the statue was vividly coloured, like almost all statues of the time.
With its theatrical quality, the Nike of Samothrace has inspired countless artists over the centuries.  They have often made the drama of the movement recognisable in their own images.