"Negau" Helmet

Dateabout 400 BCE

Mediumbronze

Dimensions21.4 × 21.4 × 22.9 cm (8 7/16 × 8 7/16 × 9 in.), 1 lb 15 oz (weight)

ClassificationsArms and Armor

MarkingsRectangular, gouge-like mark 1/16"W x 5/18"L on proper left. anterior of mid-point. Proper right rear interior Higgins accession number "2039" in black on white strip.

Credit LineThe John Woodman Higgins Armory Collection

Terms

Object number2014.1045

Description1-piece, almond shaped, ogival skull, embossed with sunken, concave border at base, outwardly flanged rim, itself with sunken border on upper face; this pierced on either side by single 3/16" hole at mid-point, perhaps for a cheek-piece or chinstrap. Crest more sloping in front, more vertical in back. Outer edge embossed, forming half-round outer rib, & finished with inward flange below. Anterior face of skull has full-length medial rib; posterior similarly formed but for only upper third of length. Losses at top rear.

Form of skull not unlike 16th century cabasset.
Label TextThe Etruscans managed for a time to become the dominant power in central Italy, based in part on their close relations with Greek merchants and colonists. For a century they were the overlords of Rome, and their culture would have a profound impact on Roman civilization.ProvenancePurchased by Museum on January 27, 1934 from Theodore Offerman (NYC). Paid $55 for lot of four helmets including HAM#s 2037, 2038, 2039, 2040. Helmets were part of lot #417 of the Henry Walters Collection sold at American Art Galleries on January 12, 1934. Collection transfer from Higgins Armory, January 2014.

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