Winged Victory of Samothrace (c. 200–190 BC) (Greek Art)

Winged Victory of Samothrace - Greek Art - c.200 - c.190 BC

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Artwork Information

TitleWinged Victory of Samothrace
ArtistGreek Art
Datec.200 - c.190 BC
MediumMarble
Dimensions328 cm (11 ft)
Art MovementHellenistic
Current LocationMusée du Louvre, Paris
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About Winged Victory of Samothrace

The Winged Victory of Samothrace is a marble sculpture of Nike, the Greek goddess of victory, and is considered one of the greatest masterpieces of Hellenistic art. It was created during the 2nd century BCE and is believed to have been in commemoration of a naval victory. The statue was found on the Greek Island of Samothrace and exudes an aura of majesty and power.

The statue stands at 5.57 meters tall and is made of marble from the Greek island Paros. The sculpture depicts Nike standing on the bow of a ship, with her wings stretched behind her, as if mid-flight. The artist created a vivid illusion of movement captured through Nike’s flowing robes and the windswept curves on her wings. The statue was discovered on Samothrace by Charles Champoiseau, a French vice-consul, and amateur archaeologist in 1863 CE.

The Hellenistic era saw artists blend oriental and Greek cultures into a style that became known as Hellenism. The Winged Victory of Samothrace, with its attention to dramatic movement and emotion, is a perfect example of this style. The statue stands on its own pedestal in the Louvre Museum in Paris and still has the power to inspire awe in modern-day visitors.

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