Byzantine Hand Grenade with Geometric Design

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Object Description

A Byzantine earthenware hand grenade featuring a hollow bulbous 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 a fuse to instigate the explosion. As typical for Byzantine grenades this piece displays a geometric pattern to its outer surface. Parallel vertically etched lines decorate the body. Each line consists of either a row of arrows, dashes, cirlces or a straight line incised into the grenade. The base features multiple thick, horizontal grooves with the intention of better grip for the holder. The top is decorated with a similar etched motif of arrows and dashes with in two registers. Three deep grooves have been etched into the neck to create a tiered effect culminating at the rim.

Date: Circa 9th – 11th Century AD

Object History

Ex private UK collection, acquired 1990s.

Object Condition

Fine condition. Slight chips to the lip and body of the vessel and earthly encrustations consistent with age

Object Details

  • dimensions
    W:9 x H:15.5 centimeters

Dealer Opening Times

By appointment only.

Dealer Contact

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+44 (0)208 364 4565
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+44 (0)7833231322
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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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