AN ANCIENT GREEK BRONZE ILLYRIAN HELMET 550-480 BC (ED.24.025)
This Illyrian helmet is skillfully fashioned from a single sheet of bronze, demonstrating the sophisticated metalworking techniques of ancient Greek armourers. The smooth rim surrounding the facial opening and the rear edges of the elongated cheek pieces are decorated with carefully punched circular impressions, a decorative feature that recalls the rows of rivets characteristic of earlier Illyrian helmet forms. The lower corners of the cheek pieces are pierced with attachment holes, likely intended for securing a chin strap or additional fittings. Running along the crown are two prominent raised ridges that form a crest rail, designed to support the attachment of a plume or horsehair crest. A perforation positioned at the forehead provided an additional anchoring point for the crest assembly, ensuring its stability during use. These features not only enhanced the helmet’s visual impact but also reflected the importance of martial display and status within the ancient Greek warrior tradition.
Provenance
Private Greek Australian collector Elias (Louis) Dounis, acquired May 2024 (ED.24.025).
Property of the heirs of a private Swiss collector (d.2023) residing in Frankfurt, Germany, acquired in 2016.
Property of the heirs of a Southern German Private collector (d.2016), acquired on the German art market in the early 1980s.
Originally with a German Antiques dealer in the 1970s.
Exhibitions
The Hellenic Museum Australia.
280 William St, Melbourne VIC 3000.
Exhibition; Heroes & Hoplites, Warfare In Ancient Greece, 2019.
Identifier: L.2024.5.B
Publications
Truong, A, R. (2016) “Ancient Weapons, Armour, Militaria (News Article)” France, n.4553.
Hixenbaugh, R. (2019) “Ancient Greek Helmets: A Complete Guide” p.309, n.1230.
Smith, R, S. (2024) Antiques And The Arts Weekly “Illyrian Bronze Helmet” p.1.
Stark, R. (2024). “Greek Bronze Illyrian Helmet, Type 3A, 6th Century BC” Report.
Dounis, C. (2024). “Comprehensive Study: Greek Bronze Illyrian Helmet” Report.
John. (2025). HELLENIC MUSEUM, Melbourne: Your essential visitor guide. Greek Gods Paradise. https://greekgodsparadise.com/2025/03/09/hellenic-museum-melbourne-guide/
Find Spot
Unknown, likely Greece or further north, where a number of comparable helmets have been excavated. The corrosion and patination suggest deep burial and prolonged contact with soil over an extended period.
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