Helmet for a Gladiator
Culture
Roman
Dateabout 100 CE
Mediumbronze
Dimensions33 × 36.8 × 57.2 cm (13 × 14 1/2 × 22 1/2 in.); 5 lb 4 oz (weight)
ClassificationsArms and Armor
Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection
Object number2014.115
DescriptionBronze, consisting of skull, brim, and comb. The skull is rounded, its brow is embossed with two pair of curving ribs filled by raised dots. A Hercules mask is applied on the brow between the bands. High on either side of the skull below the comb is a domed bosset. Remnants of mounts on the interior edges of the skull indicate that cheekpieces, and probably a face guard, were once fitted. The perimeter of the skull is fitted with holes for lining rivets. Attached to the skull by curved and riveted arms is a broad, downcurving brim that deepens at the sides towards the front. There is a small loop under the back edge of the brim.
Riveted to the top of the skull is a tall, curving riveted comb with sides embossed with raised plain panels in a fan-like manner. The comb is open above for a crest (likely horsehair, perhaps colored), and ends at the basal rear in a curving "tail" with balustered terminal. A lion's head is applied to the anterior end of the comb.
Label TextGladiators engaged in combat against human or animal opponents for the entertainment of mass audiences. Such blood sports evolved from sacrificial combats held at funerals; by the height of the Roman Empire, they were conducted in purpose-built colosseums holding up to 50,000 spectators. Gladiators included criminals, prisoners of war, and highly trained volunteers; they often used weapons and armor loosely based on those of Rome’s enemies. Certain gladiators became celebrities, having cult followings not unlike today’s more flamboyant sports figures. Gladiatorial games were held by wealthy families to honor their dead. They were also sponsored by ambitious politicians to win public support. Julius Caesar's rise to power was in part based on his masterful manipulation of the Roman public's thirst for ever more imaginative blood sports. This helmet, one of only three in the Americas, was once brightly polished and ornamented with a tall horsehair crest. It was probably used by a type of gladiator called a hoplomachus. These fighters used arms vaguely reminiscent of the Greek heavy infantryman (hoplite), including leg defenses, a small round shield, spear, and short sword. ProvenanceSaid to have been found in Tuscania or Orvieto, Italy London art market; Cyril Andrade Purchased by John W. Higgins on May 16, 1930 from Cyril Andrade, Ltd. (London). Given to the Museum on December 15, 1931. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.
On View
On view
Desiderius Helmschmid
about 1552
