Unknown artist, Corinthian (ancient style)

Developed in the 5th century BCE, this type of helmet, which offered greater protection than previous designs by encasing the entire head and face, often appears in art of the time. The helmet was cast from bronze and hammered to fit the foot soldier (hoplite), for whom it was made. Because men had to purchase their own armor and equipment, military service in ancient Greece was dictated by socioeconomic status. Hoplites carried more than seventy pounds of equipment, between their spear, shield, helmet, and body armor. Helmets were commonly included in the grave of a deceased soldier, either as a mark of their profession or possibly to perform some function in the afterlife.