Classical. Cast of the original in the Acropolis Museum, Athens. Greek, two Nikai leading a bull to sacrifice, pentelic marble, ca. 430-440 BCE.
85. FRAGMENT FROM THE BALUSTRADE OF THE TEMPLE ATHENA NIKE
Description:
While other winged deities in the Greek pantheon had shed their wings by Classical times, Nike is depicted with wings in most statues and paintings. She was the goddess of strength, speed, and victory. Nike was a very close acquaintance of Athena, and is thought to have stood in her outstretched hand in the statue of Athena located in the Parthenon. Nike is one of the most commonly portrayed figures on Greek coins.
Names stemming from Nike include Nicholas (“victory of the people”), Nick, Nikolai, Nils, Klaas, Nicole, Ike, and Nicola.
Original Statue
Artist: Unknown
Material: Pentelic Marble
Culture: Classical, Greek
Century: 5th century BCE
Current Location: Athens, Greece
Museum: Acropolis Museum
