Artwork Page for Chalcidian Helmet

Details / Information for Chalcidian Helmet

Chalcidian Helmet

c. 350–200 BCE

Greek

(perhaps Black Sea area)
Medium
Tinned bronze
Measurements
height: 31.8 cm (12 1/2 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Barbara S. Robinson and Family 2023.106
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
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Did You Know?

Although named for Chalcis, a city in Euboia, Chalcidean helmets were made across the Greek world.

Description

Among ancient helmets, the Chalcidian type is varied, widespread, and comparatively unrestrictive, with relatively wide openings for the eyes and ears. This example, probably made in the Black Sea region or even further east, features a pointed noseguard, high carinated crown, molded brow ridge, and everted rear flange, plus large separately made hinged cheekpieces. The tinned bronze surface is almost silver in color, with extensive decoration including small incised linked scrolls and much larger embossed linked scrolls.
A tinned bronze helmet features a rounded dome with a central ridge and long cheekpieces. Arched eye openings widen into long, hanging cheekpieces separated by a pointed nose guard extending down in between. Ornate patterns of small, raised circles and wavy lines decorate the brow and cheekpieces. The dark, pitted metal surface retains remnants of silvery tinning, and a small, irregular hole sits above the right eye opening.

Chalcidian Helmet

c. 350–200 BCE

Greek (perhaps Black Sea area)

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