Brass. The chemical composition of the copper alloy is: Cu, 76.9%; Zn, 22.2%; Sn, 0.4%; Fe, 017%; As, 0.12%; S, 0.10%; P, 0.077%; Na, 0.065%.
Eye sockets, nostril holes and lips have been perforated through the metal of the mask.
Over the forehead is a diadem with 'lockets' or medallions.
Male youthful face. When found, the top of the helmet was in fragments.
The central medallion, surrounded by a raised border, represents 'Amor' (love?), seated with crossed legs on some floating drapery. The figure is turned to the left and is holding a lyre, which he is playing with his right hand. Unfortunately, the head is missing but it is thought likely that it would have faced to the front.
The other medallion to the right (there was probably a third one on the left, to maintain symetry) is separated from the central one by a small rosette. In the centre is a raised female bust, well modelled, surrounded by a circular area with engraved triangles. Surrounding this is a corded raised circle.
Found in a cremation burial with rich grave goods.
Thill, G. (1975), "Frühkaiserzeitliche Grabbeigaban von Hellingen (Ghzgtm. Luxenburg)", in: Archäol. Korresponzbl. 74, 5.69ff & Taf. 19.
Beck, F. & Chew, H. (1991), "Masques de Fer. Un officer romain du temps de Caligula", Editions de la Réunion des musées nationaux, Paris (Exhibition catalogue), p.150, Fig.76a
Wilhelm, E. (1971), "Bronzes figurés de l'époque romaine, Musée d'Histoire et d'Art", (Luxembourg, 1971, 2nd edition 1975).
;)
;)
;)