09-05-2006, 08:28 PM
I really like the "evil eye" hypothesis- it could even be a follow on from the earlier helmets representing a hoplite helmet tilted back.
The thing that bothered me was the lack of evidence for a painted helmet. Painted spears, yes (Notitia Dignitatum). The Dura shields where they show helmets show no sign of decoration. Decoration shown in statues looks embossed.
But I did find this, from Nabeul in Tunisia, mid fourth century, from the House of the Nymphs. Looks painted to me....
The thing that bothered me was the lack of evidence for a painted helmet. Painted spears, yes (Notitia Dignitatum). The Dura shields where they show helmets show no sign of decoration. Decoration shown in statues looks embossed.
But I did find this, from Nabeul in Tunisia, mid fourth century, from the House of the Nymphs. Looks painted to me....