Ribchester Helmet [SEP] material used
Ribchester Helmet
The Ribchester Helmet is a Roman bronze ceremonial helmet dating to between the late 1st and early 2nd centuries AD, which is now on display at the British Museum. It was found in Ribchester, Lancashire, England in 1796, as part of the Ribchester Hoard. The model of a sphinx that was believed to attach to the helmet was lost.
Description.
The helmet was impractical for protecting a soldier in battle. The helmet was intended for displays of elite horsemanship known as "hippika gymnasia" or
is attached a winged griffin.
Importance.
Only three Roman helmets with a covering over the face have been found in Britain. Prior to the 2010 discovery of the Crosby Garrett Helmet and the 1905 discovery of the Newstead Helmet this helmet was described as the highest quality helmet found. The Ribchester helmet was found corroded but, like the Newstead helmet, largely complete, whereas the Crosby Garret helmet was found in 67 fragments.
It is known that these helmets were used for display because of accounts left by Arrian of