marble relief of Nike from her temple on the Akropolis in Athens

Winged Nike, goddess of Victory, is adjusting her sandal. The original high relief marble panel, dating to ca 410-405 BCE, is from the protective parapet on the little temple of Athena Nike on the Akropolis, and is now in the Akropolis Museum in Athens. She was not alone - along the 42 meter long parapet, there were 50 other figures of the goddess in her various iterations. Fragments of these are also in the Akropolis Museum.

The goddess is almost caught off guard in this intimate moment, as she lifts her right foot in order to maintain balance as she engages in the mundane act of sorting out her sandal. A very lovely, tender, elegant image.

The relief belongs to the 'rich style' of late Classical art, which is characterised by a focus on elaborate, bulky drapery, at the same time transparent and gossamer thin, so as to give us a glimpse of the sensual form beneath, whilst keeping the goddess clothed. The depth of the folds results in an interplay of light and shadows.

Nike, winged goddess of victory and achievement, both in war and in peaceful competition. She is also the goddess of speed and strength. Her Roman equivalent is Victoria. She was daughter of Pallas and the river Styx, and the grand-daughter of Okeanos (Ocean). Her siblings were Zelos (Rivalry), Kratos (Strength) and Bia (Force). She had no husband and no children.

Her close connection with Zeus and Athena (sometimes she even holds an owl, Athena's attribute) is reflected in sculpture and on coins, and she is often depicted holding an olive wreath which she will place on the head of a victor. The sports company takes its name and logo from her.

Nike represents the archetype of the virgin goddess: free of any expectation to bear children, and therefore having the freedom to excel in other ways.

It's All Greek's capsule marble collection is made in the UK in cast Carrara marble. The beautiful white marble of Carrara in Tuscany was used for the Pantheon in ancient Rome and was a favourite of Michelangelo.

The sculptures are created using a process of dry casting, so that each sculpture contains over 90% marble. They glisten!

The high quality is such that there will be no discoloration - other than natural patination and ageing - especially if the pieces are placed outdoors.