ARCHAIC PERIOD TO CLASSICAL PERIOD, CIRCA 7TH-4TH CENTURY B.C.

This panoply is comprised of a Corinthian helmet, an anatomical cuirass and a pair of greaves. During the Archaic and Classical periods, Greek warfare was centered around the hoplite, an armed soldier carrying a round shield, sword and spear. Typically composed of men between the ages of 17-60 years, the armies of almost all city-states were composed of seasonal warriors rather than a full-time standing military. The hoplite fought on foot and formed a unit with fellow infantrymen called a phalanx, an orderly battle line of different ranks of men. While only a shield and spear were required for phalanx battle, a soldier ideally could afford a panoply, including a bronze helmet, cuirass and greaves. At this time, a complete set of armour has been estimated to cost between 75-100 drachmas, equivalent to 3-5 months of salary for a skilled worker (Burns, op. cit., 2012, p. 25). Based on its monetary value, the armour was reused after battle, either by the original owner or as spoils of war, taken from the deceased. Some were also left as dedications to the gods who aided in the victory, either at the battle site or at Panhellenic sites such as Olympia. For two similar Corinthian helmets, see nos. C121 and C123 in Hixenbaugh, op. cit.