Hippeus Hoplite – “Hippeus” translates as “cavalry” in ancient Greek, however this Spartan cavalry would not utilize horses until the latter half of the Peloponnesian War. In the early part of the 5th century BC, Spartan Hippeus troops were young Hoplites (ages 16-24) utilized as part of the King’s bodyguard. In symbol of the King’s retinue, this Hoplite is equipped with a plumed Corinthian Helmet and a bronze corselet.
In the composition, the Hippeus Hoplite, witnessing the struggle for the King’s corpse has lifted his Corinthian Helmet and turned back toward the Spartan ranks to call for reinforcements to help recover the body. It is at this moment, when his head is turned, that the opposing Persian Kardaka Hoplite has sprung forward in a counter-attack to fall on the Spartans through the gap in their defense.