Victory
Nike brings victory into the foreground of Athena’s protection. The small Ionic temple beside the entrance to the Athenian Acropolis occupies a conspicuous position above the approach. Its sanctuary had its own history and priesthood.
A decree concerning the priestess and temple records payment and sacrificial portions for the office. The inscription is evidence that religious service had practical arrangements as well as symbolic significance. The dating of the decree and some restored wording remain debated.
Athena Nike must also be distinguished from Nike as a winged figure who appears beside Athena or in her hand. The connection between them is close, but a particular image needs its own identification. The temple’s later parapet, for example, showed winged Victories participating in the celebration of success around Athena.