07-11-2007, 01:53 PM
Robinson gave an earlier dating due to the shape and form of the helmet bowl. This is also backed-up by the type of 'slot' fitment for the crest holder typical of the earlier Italic types 'B' and 'C'.
I'm of the opinion that it dates to a later period based on the form of the decorative appliques.
The Krefeld Italic D and the Italic E had similar fittings.
The Krefeld helmet is particularly interesting as it seems to be an intermediate transition between the Italic D from Mainz and the Guttmann AG800 'mouse and loaf' Neidermoermter (Italic type 'H') which is generally accepted as early third century in date.
The Krefeld features similar temple appliques, and sheathed occiptal and brass flat cross-bands.
The krefeld also features applique components as seen on the Guttmann namely the tabula ansata and gamma shapes on the neck guard.
Cross banding
The first we see of cross banding or bracing is on the adapted Gallic type from Berzobis. Then later, we see the cross bracing being made integral to the helmet rather than as an adaption. (Thielenhofen, Brigetio and Hebron helmets). All of these helmets have cross-bands made of half-round iron bars, not flat brass decoration. The iron half-round cross-bracing would have a practical function, (head protection from the falx) whereas the flat brass woould appear to be purely decorative at best.
After the Dacian campaigns, it may have been less of a requirement for helmets to have substantial bracing, so it may have developed into the flat decorative banding seen on the Italic D, E and H types.(?) This would give a dating to the end of the first quarter of the second century.
Interestingly, the mouse and loaf decoration on the Guttman helmet can be seen on the grave stele of Praetorian soldiers. Maybe this helmet type was traditionally worn by them?
I'm of the opinion that it dates to a later period based on the form of the decorative appliques.
The Krefeld Italic D and the Italic E had similar fittings.
The Krefeld helmet is particularly interesting as it seems to be an intermediate transition between the Italic D from Mainz and the Guttmann AG800 'mouse and loaf' Neidermoermter (Italic type 'H') which is generally accepted as early third century in date.
The Krefeld features similar temple appliques, and sheathed occiptal and brass flat cross-bands.
The krefeld also features applique components as seen on the Guttmann namely the tabula ansata and gamma shapes on the neck guard.
Cross banding
The first we see of cross banding or bracing is on the adapted Gallic type from Berzobis. Then later, we see the cross bracing being made integral to the helmet rather than as an adaption. (Thielenhofen, Brigetio and Hebron helmets). All of these helmets have cross-bands made of half-round iron bars, not flat brass decoration. The iron half-round cross-bracing would have a practical function, (head protection from the falx) whereas the flat brass woould appear to be purely decorative at best.
After the Dacian campaigns, it may have been less of a requirement for helmets to have substantial bracing, so it may have developed into the flat decorative banding seen on the Italic D, E and H types.(?) This would give a dating to the end of the first quarter of the second century.
Interestingly, the mouse and loaf decoration on the Guttman helmet can be seen on the grave stele of Praetorian soldiers. Maybe this helmet type was traditionally worn by them?
![[Image: smallparmarat.jpg]](http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b242/peronis/smallparmarat.jpg)
