The Corinthian hoplite bronze helmet is about to be sold at an estimated price of £60,000-£90,000 by Apollo Art Auctions house. The bidding begins on January 25, 2025 at 1.00 p.m. GMT.
The helmet is dated to ca. 500 – 450 BC. It was likely cast and then hammered into shape and belongs to the type known as Corinthian, characterised by almond-shaped eye holes, large cheek-pieces, and a wide nose-guard. This type also features holes for rivets, or metal fasteners, intended to secure liners.
The helmet is preserved in a perfect condition and has a smooth green patina. Its provenance is “a private UK collection; previously in an English private collection since 2016; Ex. Marcus Prill collection, 2012; Ex. Wolfram Schmidt collection, 1970s. Copies of original invoices are available. This item has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database and comes with a confirmation letter. This piece comes with a full metallurgical laboratory report from the independent Belgian laboratory Hebolabo. This piece is accompanied by a historical report from Alessandro Neri, an international Cultural Heritage expert based in Florence, Italy”.