• Reading Public Museum
    Open 11a-5p DailyAdmission
  • Neag Planetarium
    Show ScheduleAdmission
  • Arboretum
    Open everyday from sunrise to sunset
Collections Menu

Pseudo-Corinthian or Italo-Corinthian Helmet

Pseudo-Corinthian or Italo-Corinthian Helmet

Culture: Greek

Date: 4th century BC
Medium: bronze
Dimensions:
Overall: 9 1/2 x 4 1/4 x 11 1/8 in. (24.1 x 10.8 x 28.3 cm)
Credit Line:Joe Kindig Jr., and Son (York, PA)
Museum Purchase through the Levi W. Mengel Memorial Fund from Joe Kindig Jr. and Son.
Object number: 1956.4.1

The Corinthian helmet originated in ancient Greece around the 8th century BC, and took its name from the city-state of Corinth. It is generally accepted as the first Greek helmet designed, based on archeological evidence. Because of the large portion of metal covering the face, it severely limited the wearer's vision and hearing, so, through the years it was modified to be more effective. During the 5th century BC this type of helmet was adapted by the Etruscans, who frequently depicted it in amphorae painting and on sarcophagi.

Out of combat, soldiers often wore the helmet tipped upward for comfort, which gave rise to the pseudo-Corinthian/Apulian Corinthian helmet in Italy. The nose guard and eye slits became mere decorations on its face, since the helmet was no longer pulled over the face but worn cap-like.

In Collection(s)