Lot 703
Roman "Cavalry Parade" Helmet, c. 200-300 A.D. Height: 26.5 cm; Worn at equestrian exercises known as "Hippica Gymnasia" during religious festivals celebrated by the Roman Military and during diplomatic events for visiting officials from the Roman provinces. Formed of hammered bronze with remnants of silver tinning, the high-arching crest with a peaked double ridge and a repoussé "Bust of Minerva" at the front of the crest, the goddess is also depicted with a triple-crested helmet and scaly aegis on her breast plate with central gorgoneion, with her shield on left shoulder, the helmet with molded ear protection, perforated at edge for attachment of a silver face mask along the visor below the Minera bust. Along with this elaborate helmet the cavalryman would carry a special gilted shield and wear an embroidered tunic as Rome's finest.
Estimated Value $20,000 - 25,000.
Morven Collection from Royal-Athena Galleries, New York, 1988, cf. The Armor of Imperial Rome, London, pp. 128-9 and M. Junkelman, Romissche Kampf und Turnierrustungen: Guttman Collection, VI pp. 106-7.
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| Realized $45,600 |
