Roman Facial Armor

By Crusader1307

As previously discussed, through Ancient Roman Military was an adaptive Force with regards to their weapons and tactics. Their deployment of Cavalry  (mounted Horsemen), was very different to the way they would be used in the coming Centuries. Although a type of "Shock Force", the primary goal was to move a "mounted" soldier from one point on the battlefield to the other. Without question, Roman Cavalry used various types of protective headgear - relying on the traditional Gallic or Coolus Helmets. However late in Roman History (5th Century BC), a new form of protection began to be used. Facial Armor, was devised as a way to supplement their Helmets. Highly stylized, these were thinking iron or brass plated Masks which fitted onto the face. Affixed by cords or cloth ties, these Masks were given nostril "holes" for breathing as well as "eyes" (visual). The "mouth" of the Mask was enclosed. Originally sern as an early form of "psychological warfare", they fitted well onto the interior of The Gallic Helmet. By the 7th Century AD, a form of hinge was adapted  (Byzantine), with this innovation seen as an early type of Visor. The hinge allowed for upwards movement, exposing the face. Various forms of Facial Armor would continue in Europe (based on Rome's version).