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Corinthian helmet
Greek
Archaic Period
650–625 B.C.
Medium/Technique
Bronze
Dimensions
Overall: 25 x 28 x 20.5 cm (9 13/16 x 11 x 8 1/16 in.)
Credit Line
Henry Lillie Pierce Fund
Accession Number98.664
CollectionsAncient Greece and Rome
ClassificationsWarfare, hunting, fishing – Armor
Catalogue Raisonné
Greek, Etruscan, & Roman Bronzes (MFA), no. 581; Sculpture in Stone and Bronze (MFA), p. 126 (additional published references).
DescriptionThis helmet of Corinthian type (it covers the head and neck fully, has flexible cheek guards, and has two eye openings on either side of a long nose guard) appears to have been severely battered by blows, probably incurred during battle. The fairly cylindrical shape is typical of earlier Corinthian helmets. The pins inserted into holes along the edge of the helmet were attachment points for a leather lining, which has since deteriorated. The circular hole in the nape guard could have resulted from the attachment of the helmet to a post in the sanctuary, a typical method for displaying votive helmets. Purportedly from Olympia.
Dark green patina. The bronze has been pierced on the proper right side and at least six major indentations have misshapen the crown. Cracks in the base rim at the nicks over the shoulders.
Dark green patina. The bronze has been pierced on the proper right side and at least six major indentations have misshapen the crown. Cracks in the base rim at the nicks over the shoulders.
ProvenanceBy date unknown: with Edward Perry Warren (according to Warren's records: From Elis, bought in Athens with MFA 98.665); 1898: purchased by MFA from Edward Perry Warren for $ 69,618.13 (this figure is the total price for MFA 98.641-98.940)