MAGNA GRAECIA, CLASSICAL PERIOD, CIRCA 5TH CENTURY B.C.

The pseudo-Corinthian helmet type developed in Italy during the 6th-5th century B.C. at the time when its mainland Hellenic cousin, the Corinthian helmet, became extinct in Greece. Function was the main difference of these two helmets, as the Italian product became more decorative rather than protective. It was worn on top of the head rather than over the face, secured with a chin strap, with the front portion serving as a visor (see p. 108 in A. Bottini, et al., Antike Helme).

Of particular note for this helmet is the elegant raised brow and incised details, including hatching around the eye holes and the phantom nose-guard as well as the confronting boars on the cheek-plates.