Otherwise, their appearance is very similar to that of the Coolus style. What sets them apart from other Roman helmets of this period is that they were made of iron rather than brass or bronze. They were in use during the Late Republic and Early Imperial periods of Roman History or roughly 100 BCE- 100 CE. The Agen style is another example of Celtic influence on Roman armor. It saw its greatest use during the period of Caesar’s Gallic Wars (58-50 BCE), possibly because large numbers of Celtic armorers were employed by the Romans at this time.Īgen: The “First” Ancestral Roman Helmet Agen Helmet, Roman 1st Century BCE, Giubiasco Ticino Switzerland, via Pinterest with Agen Helmet Line Drawing, 1st Century BCE, via Wikimedia Commons The Coolus style appears to have come into use during the 3rd Century BCE and remained in service until the 1st Century CE. This was critical during this period as many Roman citizens were called upon to serve in the army. Both helmets were likely adopted by the Romans because their simple design meant that they could be mass-produced cheaply. Like the Montefortino helmet, which it resembles, the Coolus Roman helmet was also Celtic in origin. Montefortino style Roman helmets are very similar to the Coolus style of Roman helmets so that they are often grouped together in modern classification systems.Ĭoolus: Caesar’s Helmet Coolus helmet, 1st Century CE, via the British Museum Often the name of the soldier who wore the helmet was inscribed inside of it. Most finds are missing their cheek guards, which has led to speculation that they may have been made of some sort of perishable material. It also featured a protruding neck guard and cheek plates which protected the side of the head. It is characterized by its conical or rounded shape and a raised central knob on top of the helmet. The Montefortino was made most commonly from bronze, but iron was also occasionally used. This helmet came into use sometime around 300 BCE and saw service into the 1st Century CE. As with many other types of Roman helmet, it originated with the Celts. This means that the earliest type of Roman helmet that can easily be identified as such is the Montefortino type. Though it would be a mistake to assume that Roman soldiers did not wear helmets during those periods. This makes identifying and classifying distinctly Roman helmets of the Roman Kingdom and the Early Republic rather difficult. 3rd Century BCE, via the British MuseumĮarly Roman helmets tended to borrow their designs and styles from the various Italiotes, Etruscans, and other peoples of the Italian Peninsula. A transverse plume adorns the top of the helm, featuring a vibrant red color signifying a soldier of the centurion rank.Montefortino: The Longest Serving Roman Helmet Montefortino helmet, ca. The helmet is made from quality metals and features an attractive polished metal appearance adorned with elegant wave patterns along the top of the helm. ![]() A small visor adorns the forehead of the helmet. ![]() The back features a sloping neck guard, while the front features hinged facial protectors. Like the typical Roman galea, this helmet features a rounded cap and open sides, which allow the warriors ears to remain uncovered. ![]() The imperial Gallic H Centurion Helmet is a replica of a historical helm found on an archaeological dig. The imperial helmet is a broad classification applied to the helmet that was considered by many to be the quintessential Roman galea (or helmet). Women’s Medieval & Renaissance Footwear.
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