AN IMPRESSIVE ANCIENT GREEK BRONZE PILOS HELMET 400-200 BC (ED.26.200)

This helmet is composed of bronze, formed from a single sheet hammered into shape. It is a Greek pilos helmet dating to the 4th–3rd century BC, distinguished by a carination above the brim and conical design. A bronze attachment on the crown of the helmet as well as two riveted horns for the helmet crest on either side. Two four-spoked wheel soldered on each side. Another decorated hole on the back of the helmet. In the centre is an imprecise moon crest attachment. Overall, this large helmet is in an attractive 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 pilos-type helmet.

Provenance

  • Private Greek Australian collector Elias (Louis) Dounis, acquired May 2026 (ED.26.200).

  • With the Musée d'Art Classique de Mougins in the collection of Christian Levett, acquired 2010.

  • With the Royal-Athena Galleries, New York in the collection of Dr. Jerome M. Eisenberg, acquired 2010.

  • Part of a private German collection acquired 15.12.2004.

  • Originally in a private German collection acquired in the 1980s.

Exhibitions

  • Musée d'Art Classique de Mougins, 2011-2023 (Inv. no. MMoCA437).

  • The Hellenic Museum Australia.

    280 William St, Melbourne VIC 3000.

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

    Identifier: L.2026.?.?

Publications

  • Gorny & Mosch, Auction, Munich, 15 December 2004, lot 178.

  • Eisenberg, M. J. (2010) Art of the Ancient World, Royal-Athena Galleries, vol. 21, p. 43, n°98.

  • Hixenbaugh, R. (2019) “Ancient Greek Helmets: A Complete Guide” p.530, n.H231.

  • Dounis, C. (2026). “Comprehensive Study: Greek Bronze Pilos Helmet” Report.

Find Spot

Unknown, likely discovered in Greece or southern Italy where a large number of similar helmets have been excavated. Corrosion and patination suggest deep burial and longterm contact with soil. The corrosion and patination suggest deep burial and prolonged contact with soil over an extended period.

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