Nike of Samothrace
Dublin Core
Title
Nike of Samothrace
Description
Despite its lack of a head or arms, this sculpture of the winged goddess of victory is one of the most famous sculptures in the world. As such, it is a part of most people's visual vocabularies.
Interestingly, though, Nike, being a winged woman, is rather difficult to differentiate from a statue of a typical Christian angel. Most people would not even recognize her if she did have a head and arms, even though these were not the artist's original intention.
Changing times lend the same image different meanings — however, Nike has managed to retain her original meaning by changing her shape. Losing her head and arms preserved her image thousands of years into the future.
Interestingly, though, Nike, being a winged woman, is rather difficult to differentiate from a statue of a typical Christian angel. Most people would not even recognize her if she did have a head and arms, even though these were not the artist's original intention.
Changing times lend the same image different meanings — however, Nike has managed to retain her original meaning by changing her shape. Losing her head and arms preserved her image thousands of years into the future.
Creator
Ben Wolf
Files
Collection
Citation
Ben Wolf, “Nike of Samothrace,” COM/ENG 395, accessed February 7, 2025, https://com395.omeka.chass.ncsu.edu/items/show/251.