1070 - A copy of one of the ceremonial versions of a Negau helmet, circa 1900

A copy of one of the ceremonial versions of a Negau helmet, circa 1900 A high-quality replica of a Negau helmet acquired from the L. Marzoli Collection, which convincingly resembles an archaeological find and features secondary, artificially created details such as small cracks in the skull cap and a green patina with incrustations. The helmet combines various features from different subtypes of Negau helmets: the horizontal brim at the edge with a low hem was modeled after Belmonte-type helmets. However, the solidly cast hem is technically incorrect; in original helmets, it is always made of flanged sheet metal. The crest on the crown, formed by a comb punched out of the sheet metal, occurs only in the Alpine variant, which, however, has a high brim hem. The two volutes on the forehead, which emerge from the helmet crest, are likely inspired by helmets such as those from S. Pietro di Campiano (again, the Belmonte type), as is the circle between them with a bump in the center and a spike above it. The two bumps embossed from the sides of the calotte are also a feature that has been misunderstood and incorrectly implemented. Occasionally, Negau helmets also feature such lateral bumps, but these are always crafted and mounted separately, as in the earlier “bump helmets,” where they constitute a defining characteristic of the type. The two solid plume holders are also found on various Negau helmets. However, in combination with the embossed Alpine-style helmet crest, they make little sense. The helmet still bears the typical round label from the Marzoli Collection (3023), framed by an aluminum border; this collection included not only originals but also numerous forgeries from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which remained undetected for a long time. A highly decorative and skillfully crafted copy, whose inconsistencies are only apparent to the expert upon closer inspection. At the same time, it is a prominent object of interest in the history of collecting. Dimensions: 20 x 28.5 x 24 cm. Provenance: Axel Guttmann Collection, acquired for this collection from the L. Marzoli Collection in the late 1980s. Condition: I -