AN ANCIENT GREEK BRONZE ILLYRIAN HELMET 550-480 BC (ED.25.071)
This late-form Illyrian helmet, classified as Type IIIA, Variant 3 with a smooth rim, represents one of the final developments of the Illyrian helmet tradition. Hammered from a single sheet of bronze, it displays the refined proportions and streamlined profile characteristic of the type's mature evolution. The integral cheek pieces descend vertically alongside the facial opening, rising from the anterior corners and curving elegantly toward the rear. They terminate in pointed side cut-outs that flow into a subtly flaring neck guard measuring approximately 1 cm in width. This design provided effective protection while maintaining the wearer's visibility, hearing, and mobility. The smooth rim of the facial opening and the rear edges of the cheek pieces are decorated with punched circular impressions, reminiscent of the rows of rivets found on earlier helmet types. These details preserve a traditional decorative element long after its original structural function had disappeared. Small perforations at the lower corners of the cheek pieces likely served for the attachment of a leather chinstrap or internal lining. Across the crown run two raised ridges, hammered out from the interior to form a crest rail for the attachment of a horsehair plume. This feature strengthened the helmet and provided a mounting point for a crest that would have enhanced the warrior's appearance and visibility on the battlefield. The helmet survives with a rich green patina developed over centuries, highlighting both its antiquity and excellent state of preservation. As one of the latest forms of the Illyrian helmet, it reflects the continued refinement of Greek armour before the widespread adoption of more open helmet styles such as the Chalcidian and Attic types..
Provenance
Private Greek Australian collector Elias (Louis) Dounis, acquired May 2025 (ED.25.071).
With Christopher Bacher Ancient Art, Vienna (Ref: 2649) acquired in early 2025.
The property of a south German private collection, acquired at Hermann Historica Munich 15th May 2003, lot 12.
Originally in the collection of Axel Guttmann (1944-2001) acquired in the 1980s.
Exhibitions
The Hellenic Museum Australia.
280 William St, Melbourne VIC 3000.
Exhibition; Heroes & Hoplites, Warfare In Ancient Greece, 2019.
Identifier: L.2024.9.C
Publications
Hermann Historica. Auction Catalogue. Munich, 15 May 2003, lot 12.
Dounis, C. (2025). “Comprehensive Study: Greek Bronze Illyrian Helmet” Report.
Find Spot
Unknown, possibly Greece or further north, where a number of similar helmets have been excavated. Possibly discovered in a tomb which was customary for the time and would also explains in tack survival over the millenniums.
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