Neo-Assyrian Bronze Military Helmet
8th century B.C. With lateral seams, attachment holes to lower edge, bowl with tall conical peak; mounted on a custom-made stand. Cf. Born, H., Seidl, U., Schutzwaffen aus Assyrien und Urartu, Sammlung Axel Guttmann, Mainz, 1995, pl.VI, VII, XIII-XV, and pp.134-149, for a near identical helmet in the Guttmann collection (AG204).3.5 kg total, 55.5 cm high including stand (21 3/4 in.). Acquired on the UK art market. From a private collection, 1980s. Ex central London gallery. The Kusmirek Collection, UK.Accompanied by an academic report by Dr Raffaele D'Amato. This lot has been checked against the Interpol Database of stolen works of art and is accompanied by search certificate number no.11765-203977. From the reign of King Tiglatpilesar III (744-727 B.C.) or possibly later. The army of the Neo-Assyrian Empire consisted of large units of cavalry and skilled archers. Mobile workshops and smiths produced vast quantities of arrows and spears that were required while on campaign. The royal palaces of Nineveh, Ashur, and Nimrud were adorned with reliefs depicting Neo-Assyrian troops including foot soldiers in similar pointed bronze helmets. The helmet was originally bimetallic, made of bronze and iron. Although the iron section is now preserved only in fragments, having deteriorated long ago, the bronze half remains. [A video of this lot is available to view on Timeline Auctions Website.]