Helmet of Chalcidian Type

With its extensive decoration, this helmet is more likely to have served a ceremonial function than been worn in battle. It is a variation of the Chalcidian type that was made in South Italy. The type was lighter and less cumbersome than other Greek helmets, and is distinguished by its hinged cheekpieces. 

The decoration of this example includes a griffin protome on the crest, flanked by wings above the ears. The spring-like coils just inside the wings would originally have held feather plumes. The helmet's brow depicts a diadem and the locks of hair surrounding it. The cheekpieces, although damaged, are decorated with strands of a beard and an animal, perhaps a goat.