This is a cheekpiece originating from an infantry or cavalry helmet from the late 2nd to mid-3rd century AD, possibly of the Niederbieber type. Infantrymen began to equip themselves with heavy cavalry helmets that offered greater protection to the neck, forehead, and ears, starting around 200 AD. Many of these helmets resemble those found in Niederbieber, Germany, on the Rhine frontier. This accessory was part of a completely new military equipment suspected to be popularized by the legions created by Septimius Severus. The well-known style of the Roman legionary helmet (Italic imperial helmet) changed and evolved. However, the old helmet style remained popular and practical, even in 200 AD. You can also admire Roman helmet cheek pieces at our colleagues’ exhibits at the Museum of Dacian and Roman Civilization in Deva or at The Mountainous Banat Museum in Resita, which we invite you to visit.

Challenge

If you are not convinced by our theory, we encourage you to investigate on your own the types of Roman costumes and share your own opinion about this helmet at the email address: office@palatulprincipilor.ro.