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Helmet of Weisenau Type and Dolabra
Not on view
In its complete state, this exceptionally rare and well-preserved Roman infantry helmet would have also included a pair of broad cheekpieces. The name Julius Mansuetus––the owner of the helmet, probably an officer––is inscribed on the neck guard. The meaning of the mice and loaves of bread that adorn the back of the bowl is not known; they possibly had a devotional function. Found with the helmet, the dolabra is a pickaxe traditionally carried by Roman infantry. Its copper alloy sheath would have been used to cap the cutting blade.
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