Ancient Roman Bronze Mannheim Helmet with Siren Decoration, 50 BC

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About the Item

This exceptional Roman helmet dates from the mid to late 1st century BC. Adorned with rare cast decoration, it is the finest example of the ‘Mannheim’ type currently on the private market. Exhibiting a beautiful deep green patina, this stunning Roman legionary’s helmet is constructed of hammered sheet, the dome with a small flanged brim front and back, and each side with two perforations for the attachment of leather cheek-guards, now long since perished. A separately cast figure of a Siren with outstretched wings, tender smiling features and parted hair is riveted to the front. When one pictures the Roman army, one envisages the brutally efficient military machine that swept aside the civilisations of the ancient world, from the cold forests of northern Britain to the desert sands of the Middle East. Yet this striking artefact has an aesthetic not just of power and dominance, but also of splendour and elegance. The siren adorning the front is apt, they were regarded as dangerous yet beautiful creatures, and so it is with this stunning piece; danger and beauty in equal measure. The Mannheim style of helmet is generally associated with the Roman army operating in the western areas of the Empire during the late Republican era through to the Flavian period. The style arose in the mid-1st century BC at the time of the Gallic Wars, and was clearly influenced by the helmets worn by Celtic warriors. The style persisted up to around 100 AD, and appears to have been prevalent among troops stationed along the Rhine frontier. Though the Mannheim seems to have been popular during this period, examples in this stunning condition are extremely rare. Even more exceptional is the Siren riveted to the front, an extra addition which was likely paid for out of the pocket of the legionary who owned it. It was the blood and toil of the average man in the Roman army that carried the success and growth of the Empire forward. Their names are mostly lost to us, but here we have a glimpse of the personality of the man who owned this helmet. He wanted to stand out, to show something of his extra wealth or importance, perhaps to the anger of his fellow legionaries. An essence of his personality is forever captured in this remarkable artifact. Provenance: Ex. USA private collection. Sold at Christie’s auction in New York, June 2001.

Dimensions:
Height: 7.5 in (19.05 cm)Width: 1 in (2.54 cm)Depth: 1 in (2.54 cm)
Place of Origin:
Unknown
Period:
18th Century and Earlier
Date of Manufacture:
50 BC
Condition:
This piece is in truly exceptional condition. With some minor restoration to the back rim, otherwise excellent and exhibiting a stunning malachite patina.
Seller Location:
London, GB
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU105221285896

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