Phrygian Helmet

By Crusader1307

Originating in Ancient Greece around the 4th Century, this helmet is thought to have originated in Thrace or Dacia. Unique for it's shape, it was popularized by King Philip II (Macedon) and even more so by his Son – Alexander The Great). The Phrygian features a high and inclined peak (or apex), often shaped forward. The upper or Cap portion of the helmet was constructed of bronze with the side cheek guards made of thick leather (for facial protection). The Upper cap bronze was cast as one sheet and shaped during heating. A Nasal Guard (small) was normally a permanent ficture that could not be removed. The general shape of The Phrygian Helmet gave it's wearer an almost form fitting position of the head (which was appreciated by some Warriors). Another characteristic of The Phrygian is the large wide eye-set (so maximum vision and angle could be achieved). Documentation and surviving examples show that the helmet was often painted in bright colors or had elaborate engraving applied.