In 1868, an extraordinary artifact was unearthed from the River Thames by the Port of London Authority. This discovery was none other than an ancient Celtic bronze helmet, now famously known as the Waterloo Helmet. This ceremonial helmet, dating back to the Iron Age, is one of only three such helmets ever found in England, and it stands out as the only horned helmet from that period discovered in Europe.
The Discovery and Design of the Waterloo Helmet
The Waterloo Helmet was found near Waterloo Bridge and is a masterpiece of La Tène art, a style popular in Britain during the last few centuries BC. Crafted from two pieces of bronze riveted together, the helmet features repoussé decorations, where designs are hammered into the reverse side of the metal. The most striking elements of the helmet are the two tapering horns, each tipped with terminal knobs, attached to the top. Additional rivets adorn the circumference and the points where the horns join the cap, adding to its intricate design.
Upon its discovery, the helmet exhibited a weathered blue-green patina typical of ancient bronze artifacts. However, it has since been restored to reveal a rich, polished bronze color, possibly further adorned with pieces of red glass. Small holes around the bottom edge suggest that the helmet may have originally had a lining.
Unique Among Iron Age Helmets
Including the Waterloo Helmet, only three Iron Age helmets have been found in England, with the other two being the Meyrick Helmet and the Canterbury Helmet. Unlike these other helmets, the Waterloo Helmet is the only one with horns. The horns on this helmet are straight and more reminiscent of a rabbit’s ears than the realistic bull horns typically associated with Gallic helmets.
The helmet’s unique design has been instrumental in helping archaeologists date the artifact. Iron Age representations of soldiers in horned helmets, such as those on the Gundestrup Cauldron from the 1st century BC and a bas-relief at Brague, France, provide valuable context. These depictions show figures with curved horns, which, like those on the Waterloo Helmet, are not sharply pointed.
Ceremonial Use and Significance
The thin sheets of bronze used to make the Waterloo Helmet indicate that it was not intended for combat. Instead, it was likely used for ceremonial purposes. Its small size suggests that it may have been designed for a statue or effigy, as it would not fit most fully grown men. It is also possible that the helmet was thrown into the River Thames as an offering of some type.
Modern Replication and Display
In 2014, Jeffrey Hildebrandt, a member of the Royal Oak Armoury and an experienced replicator of ancient helmets, successfully recreated the Waterloo Helmet. His journey, filled with both failures and successes, culminated in a reproduction that sold for $2,750.
Today, the original Waterloo Helmet is housed in the British Museum in London. Despite one horn being broken and replaced with a replica, the helmet is in remarkable condition considering it lay at the bottom of the River Thames for nearly 2,000 years. The helmet has also been part of significant exhibitions, including “Celts: Art and Identity” at the British Museum in 2015-2016, and a display at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh from March to September 2016.
Conclusion
The Waterloo Helmet is a testament to the rich history and artistry of the Iron Age in Britain. As one of only three Iron Age helmets found in England, and the only horned helmet from that era discovered in Europe, it offers a unique glimpse into the ceremonial practices and artistic achievements of ancient Celtic culture. Its discovery and preservation allow us to continue to explore and understand the fascinating history of the Iron Age.
