Nike

work by Paeonius

Also known as: “Winged Victory”

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July 1, 2026

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The statue of Nike, or "Winged Victory," was created by the Greek sculptor Paeonius around 420 BCE. Found in Olympia, Greece, an inscription on its pedestal indicates it commemorated a victory by the Messenians and Naupactians.1

Nike is also recognized in ancient Greek religion as the goddess of victory. She is depicted as a winged figure, often shown carrying a palm branch or wreath, symbolizing success in various endeavors, not just war. In Roman culture, she was known as Victoria and was considered a protective goddess of the Senate. Other notable artistic representations of Nike include the Winged Victory of Samothrace.2

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Paeonius
…for his statue of the Nike, or “Winged Victory” (c. 420 bc; Archaeological Museum, Olympia), which was found in Olympia in 1875. An inscription on its pedestal states that the statue commemorated a victory of the Messenians and the Naupactians over an unnamed enemy, probably the Spartans.
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…for his statue of the Nike, or “Winged Victory” (c. 420 bc; Archaeological Museum, Olympia), which was found in Olympia in 1875. An inscription on its pedestal states that the statue commemorated a victory of the Messenians and the Naupactians over an unnamed enemy, probably the Spartans.
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Western sculpture
High Classical period (c. 450–400 bce)
…or major works like the Nike (“Victory”) found at Olympia, made by Paeonius. This work, and others that belong to the last years of the century, such as the frieze from the balustrade of the temple of Athena Nike on the Acropolis at Athens, give a clear indication of progress…
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…or major works like the Nike (“Victory”) found at Olympia, made by Paeonius. This work, and others that belong to the last years of the century, such as the frieze from the balustrade of the temple of Athena Nike on the Acropolis at Athens, give a clear indication of progress…
Read More