Winged Victory

The Winged Victory belonged to LA Adamson, and was left to the School upon his death. It represents Nike the goddess of victory, standing on a sphere- a difficult thing to do, which is why victory is so temporary. She holds in her outstretched hand the laurel wreath for the winner. The statue was placed on the table at every boat race dinner to remind the crew of the fleeting nature of victory- and loss.

The statue is based on the Winged Victory of Samothrace, a headless female figure who originally had one foot on a helmet, and in her hand held a shield. It is believed it was made to celebrate a sea battle, and a copy is held in the Louvre, Paris. Later versions like this one were created in the foundries of Naples, souvenirs for the wealthy who undertook the 'Grand Tour' in the 19th century. Possibly made by the G. Sommer foundry in Naples, Italy.