Cavalry helmet

Roman Britain, 3rd century AD
From Guisborough, Cleveland

This thin bronze helmet has embossed and lightly engraved decoration. The deities on the brow-plate include, appropriately, Victory, and the warlike gods Mars and Minerva.

It is sometimes difficult to determine whether a helmet was intended for full combat use or for parades and cavalry sports events. This helmet, originally fitted with a pair of protective cheek-pieces, may have served both roles.