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Is there any proof (archeological, or textual) for the use of such kind of feathers?
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I think that the Roman historian Arrian gives us accounts of the Hippica Gymnasia where he refers to the cavalry riders charging around with their highly decorative equipment.
Infact very near to where I live I have examined the Tomb Stone of the Imagnifier Flavinus of the Ala Petriana, and here one would say that he may well have such feathers on his helmet.
Brian Stobbs
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This was why when I created the Sports Helmet I have shown I decided to do just that.
Brian Stobbs
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When I discussed crests or any decorative features in the past with Simkins or Peterson, they told me that possibly goose, ostrich, or similar feathers would be used.
I cannot say for certain that these would have been the only two used but they are VERY plausible. If you read Appicius, they ate ostrich so the feathers were available-no?
When we look at the Cancelleria Relief with the Praetorians, were they not using what appears to be ostrich feathers? They are certainly not goose or turkey.
"You have to laugh at life or else what are you going to laugh at?" (Joseph Rosen)
Paolo
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Peroni,
The common soldier does not have to eat ostrich for lunch to have the feathers for a helmet. Furthermore, we are not discussing the common soldier. This thread is about an officer that although ran with the common soldier was not common himself. :wink:
If you want ostrich feathers for your helmet, I doubt you are going to hunt, clean, and eat the entire bird so that you can make a crest. This statement is true wether you are rich or common. If someone wants feathers they can be obtained without the bird.
hock:
"You have to laugh at life or else what are you going to laugh at?" (Joseph Rosen)
Paolo