The Nike of Samothrace, also known as the Winged Victory of Samothrace, is one of the most celebrated sculptures from ancient Greece. It is believed to have been created around 190 BC, commemorating a naval victory. The statue was discovered in 1863 on the island of Samothrace, in the northern Aegean Sea.
The sculpture depicts the goddess Nike (Victory) standing on the prow of a ship, her wings outstretched as if she were descending from the heavens. The figure is notable for its dramatic sense of movement and the intricate rendering of the drapery, which gives the appearance of wind and motion. The statue is roughly 8 feet tall and was originally part of a larger monument, possibly accompanied by a sculpture of the ship it stands on.
The Nike of Samothrace is currently housed in the Louvre Museum in Paris, where it remains a major attraction due to its beauty and historical significance. The statue exemplifies the Hellenistic style, characterized by its dynamism, emotional expression, and attention to detail. Today, it is celebrated as a masterpiece of ancient Greek art and a symbol of victory and triumph.