Byzantine Hand Grenade

GBP 245.00

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Object Description

A Byzantine earthenware hand grenade featuring a hollow cylindrical body with a pointed base. To the top, the vessel leads to a short neck and splays out slightly into a thick rim with a small mouth. This allowed the item to be filled with an explosive liquid known as ‘Greek fire’ and used as a hand grenade in battle. The mouth would have also accommodated for a fuse to instigate the explosion. As typical for Byzantine grenades, this piece displays geometric patterns to its outer surface. The shoulder is decorated with a stepped concentric circle design and the tip is surrounded by an encircling groove. The top of the body features a wide, shallow groove, creating a tiered effect. The main register of the grenade features a series of indentations to aid with grip.

Date: Circa 9th-11th century AD

Object History

From a collection of a North London gentleman, latterly with a London gallery.

Object Condition

Fine condition. Earthly encrustations to the surface. Signs of wear as consistent with its age, such as minor chips, indentations, and scratches.

Object Details

  • dimensions
    W:7.6 x H:10.4 centimeters

Dealer Opening Times

By appointment only.

Dealer Contact

Telephone
+44 (0)208 364 4565
Mobile
+44 (0)7833231322
Web
Email

Dealer Location

The Gallery
Trent Park Equestrian Centre
Eastpole Farm House, Bramley Road
Oakwood, N14 4UW, United Kingdom

St James's Ancient Art
10 Charles II Street, Ground Floor
St James
London
SW1Y 4AA

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