AN ANCIENT GREEK BRONZE CORINTHIAN HELMET 600-500 BC (ED.25.072)

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. 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 May 2024 (ED.25.072).

  • Previously with Art Ancient London, acquired early 2025.

  • Previously with a private London collector acquired in 2020.

  • With the Musée d'Art Classique de Mougins in the collection of Christian Levett, acquired 18.09.2009.

  • Previously in the private London collection of Mr T.H, a acquired 12.06.2001.

  • Originally in a Zurich private collection acquired around the mid 1900s based on restoration techniques.

Exhibitions

  • Musée d'Art Classique de Mougins, 2011-2020 (Inv. no. MMoCA430).

  • The Hellenic Museum Australia.

    280 William St, Melbourne VIC 3000.

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

    Identifier: L.2025.11.D

Publications

  • Sotheby’s, New York, Antiquities, 12 June 2001, Lot 12.

  • Burns, M. (2011) "Graeco-Italic Militaria" in M. Merrony, ed., Mougins Museum of Classical Art, Mougins, p. 199, fig. 50.

  • Hixenbaugh, R. (2019) “Ancient Greek Helmets: A Complete Guide” p.397, n.C440.

  • Bradbury, D. (2025). A Corinthian Helmet Report. Darren Bradbury Limited.

  • ArtAncient. (2025). May Catalogue: Volume I p.70 n.17 ArtAncient.

  • Dounis, C. (2025). “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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