New Made Item: A gladiator (Latin: gladiator, "swordsman", from gladius, "sword") was an armed combatant who entertained audiences in the Roman Republic and Roman Empire in violent confrontations with other gladiators, wild animals, and condemned criminals. Some gladiators were volunteers who risked their legal and social standing and their lives by appearing in the arena. Most were despised as slaves, schooled under harsh conditions, socially marginalized, and segregated even in death.

Irrespective of their origin, gladiators offered spectators an example of Rome's martial ethics and, in fighting or dying well, they could inspire admiration and popular acclaim. They were celebrated in high and low art, and their value as entertainers was commemorated in precious and commonplace objects throughout the Roman world.

The origin of gladiatorial combat is open to debate. There is evidence of it in funeral rites during the Punic Wars of the 3rd century BCE, and thereafter it rapidly became an essential feature of politics and social life in the Roman world. Its popularity led to its use in ever more lavish and costly games.

The games reached their peak between the 1st century BC and the 2nd century AD, and they finally declined during the early 5th century after the adoption of Christianity as state church of the Roman Empire in 380, although beast hunts (venationes) continued into the 6th century.

This high quality replica Roman Gladiator arena battle helmet is similar to the one worn by Russell Crowe in his role as General Maximus Decimus Meridius in the film Gladiator. It is full sized and can be worn by most people. The Gladiator Spiked Helmet is hand crafted and made of 18-gauge cold rolled steel.

Key Features

- As seen in the film Gladiator.
- Constructed of 18 Gauge steel.
- Includes a genuine leather liner and chinstrap
- Steel spikes on dome.
- Face Guard.
- Size Large.

NOTE: Helmet stand pictured is not included, but is available separately.