Object Description
A Byzantine earthenware hand grenade featuring a hollow bulbous body with a pointed base, now slightly chipped. 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 a fuse to instigate the explosion. As typical for Byzantine grenades, this piece displays geometric patterns to its outer surface. Two incised, concentric circles are displayed on the shoulder and a further three ridged, concentric circles at the base. The lower circles were most likely used for grip as well as a decorative design.
Date: Circa 9th-11th century AD