Helmet of Boeotian Type, and Belt

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

This late Hellenistic helmet combines the distinctive features of two separate types generally known as Attic and Boeotian. Both cavalrymen and gladiators appear to have worn comparable helmets. This particular example and the belt complementing it were reportedly discovered in the former gladiators' barracks in Rome according to the sale catalogue of the collection of the painter and art dealer Attilio Simonetti (1843–1925).

Arms and Armor

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The principal goals of the Arms and Armor Department are to collect, preserve, research, publish, and exhibit distinguished examples representing the art of the armorer, swordsmith, and gunmaker. Arms and armor have been a vital part of virtually all cultures for thousands of years, pivotal not only in conquest and defense, but also in court pageantry and ceremonial events. Throughout time the best armor and weapons have represented the highest artistic and technical capabilities of the society and period in which they were made, forming a unique aspect of both art history and material culture.

Metropolitan Museum of Art