AN ANCIENT GREEK BRONZE CORINTHIAN HELMET 600-500 BC (ED.24.030)

A bronze helmet of Corinthian type made from a single sheet of bronze, high bowl with eye openings arching downwards forming the cheek protection, strong nose guard and neck protection; regularly disposed rivet holes along the edges for the inner padding. Rare greenish blue patina with two original iron inserts used to attach larger crests or attachments in antiquity. Overall, this large helmet is in an attractive complete condition and would have been a visually impressive piece in antiquity. In conclusion, the helmet displays all the defining features and constructional characteristics of an ancient Greek corinthian-type helmet.

Provenance

• Private Greek Australian collector Elias (Louis) Dounis, acquired July 2024 (ED.24.030).

• Originally with the descendants of Mr. Joost Kuizenga a private Netherlands based collector, acquired in 1982.

Exhibitions

• The Hellenic Museum Australia.

  280 William St, Melbourne VIC 3000.

  Exhibition; Heroes & Hoplites, Warfare In Ancient Greece, 2019.

  Identifier: L.2024.5.F

Publications

• Kuizenga, J. (1982) “Catalogue Entry: Greek Corinthian Helmet n.252”.

• Bell, B. (2024). “Greek Bronze Corinthian Helmet 600 BC” Conservation Report.

• Dounis, C. (2024). “Comprehensive Study: Greek Bronze Corinthian Helmet” Report.

Find Spot

Unknown, possibly excavated at the ancient Greek site of Olympia, where the majority of Corinthian helmets have been discovered. Possibly a votive offering to the God Zeus, along with spears, armour and shields, as was the custom during the 7th-6th century BC. Patination suggest deep burial and longterm soil contact.

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