Home I Biography I Fine Reproductions I Online Shop I Events I Consultancy |Contact

Chris Dobson

Master Armourer

Reconstruction: A helmet for a Murmillo, 2nd Century AD (1992-3).

This commission was based on heavy helmets in the British Museum and the John Woodman Higgins Armoury, for a type of a gladiator known as a 'murmillo', who was typically matched against a 'thraex', or 'Thracian'. The grills covering the eyes can be dismounted, apparently to allow the wearer to fight (or practice) with clearer vision.

These helmets are often described as bronze, but scientific examination of helmets and military equipment shows brass was frequently used as well. Therefore this reconstruction is made of brass. The gorgon's head on the brow is a lost-wax casting.

Right: General view of the helmet.

Click on the thumbnails below to see full-size photos.