Roman Bronze Cavalry Parade Helmet

An ancient Roman Imperial cavalry parade helmet consisting of a bronze and iron face mask of Nijmegen type, realistically modeled in the form of a man’s face, with openings for the eyes and mouth. The upper part of the helmet of the Heddernheim type is bronze with a silvered surface, with a prominent visor, flanged neck guard and crest in the form of an eagle head, with a boar’s head at the back.

Ca. 1st – 2nd century AD.

Height: 14 in. (35.5 cm).

Roman armor of high ranking officers was often extravagant bringing together all of the skills and technology of Roman armor smiths. Cavalry parade armor including elaborate helmets were associated with the Hippika Gymnasia or cavalry sports games. This armor was however fully functional and used in combat as evidenced by the full silvered face mask found at the site of Kalkriese in Germany where the Roman Legate Varus, lost three entire legions to the ambush of Arminius in 9 AD.

Formerly in a French private collection; previously in a German private collection.

Published (Mask): H. Born, "Restaurierung antiker Bronzewaffen, Sammlung Axel Guttmann", vol. 2., Mainz 1993, example XVIII; H. Born/M. Junkelmann, "Römische Kampf- und TurnierrĂ¼stungen - Sammlung Axel Guttmann, vol. 4. Mainz 1997, p. 88, plate VII. ill. 68; M. Junkelmann, "Reiter wie Statuen aus Erz", Mainz 1996, p. 90.
Inv#: 6857-1

Price On Request

Guaranteed Authentic

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