Roman helmet of provocator

Roman helmet once belonged to a gladiator of type provocator. Object dated to the 1st century CE and is on display at the National Archaeological Museum of Naples.

The helmet is beautifully decorated with a visible eagle on the front. The face was covered with a visor with holes.

Provocator was partially armoured, unlike other types of gladiators. He wore a breastplate held by leather straps crossing his back. The fighting style required a great deal of skill in using a sword and operating a shield. His weight prevented him from making too much of his finesse.

He was most often put up against Samnites or other provocator.