Ancient Face Masks

[vuk]

Hey all, I have been doing some research into the use of face masks in actually combat by the ancients, but esp the Roman Empire and the Parthian Empire. I have found a lot of interesting masks and a lot of information regarding them, but I keep running into a problem. Some historians/armature historians claim that the masks were used only in parades and during celebrations, while others say that they were used also in combat. To support that, most of them were found at the sites of battles. Out of curiosity, does anyone here know anything about that? How often were they actually used in battle, and by whom?
From what I know, early Greeks and Dacians used partial face masks in combat regularly, but I am wondering about full face masks.

Thanks all,
         Vuk

[Lord Zimoa]

Also have a look at Asia, Africa and The America`s. I believe it is something you see in a lot of cultures, a part of psychological warfare to scare the enemy before and in battle. So I believe when you will look more into it, I`m very positive it is more a common trend and of all times. Romans, Vikings, Samurai, Azteks...and many other used them and it works...still does, think of horror movies where they apply it a lot.

[vuk]

Also have a look at Asia, Africa and The America`s. I believe it is something you see in a lot of cultures, a part of psychological warfare to scare the enemy before and in battle. So I believe when you will look more into it, I`m very positive it is more a common trend and of all times. Romans, Vikings, Samurai, Azteks...and many other used them and it works...still does, think of horror movies where they apply it a lot.

Thanks Lord Z. I am aware that other cultures used them, but not to what extent. I decided to focus mainly on Rome, Parthia, Gaul, Greece, etc, because my research is directly related to these peoples. :D

[Lord Zimoa]

Well I do not know more than what you wrote about it in your first post, Late Roman cavalry masks were found, they were described and used in ceremonies and equestrian sport events, probably in battle as well. I for sure know Parthians and Hellenistic Greeks used them in battle, but other than that not much more.

Maybe contact The Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds. They have specialists on every period and are most friendly, I consulted them before when I had some specific historical armour or weapon questions.

http://www.royalarmouries.org/what-we-do/specialist-services/specialist-enquiries/

[Lord Zimoa]

A great website I consult for Greeks/Romans/Ancients. Tons of info and links.

http://www.teacheroz.com/romans.htm

http://www.teacheroz.com/greeks.html

http://www.teacheroz.com/generalancient.htm

[vuk]

Thanks much LZ! That is extremely helpful.