African Ceremonial Iron Double Axe

Of cylindrical shape, the upper section with alternating rectangular panels framed by pseudo-rope design and vertical rows of three prominent spikes, a short cylindrical shaft edged at top and bottom. 190 grams, 15.6 cm



Ex Abelita family collection, 1980s-2000s.

This weapon has been used in different ways, and it was probably considered the main tool in the Kassite civilisation because of the high number of maces found in this area. Bronze maces in Luristan possibly had wooden handles, although most of them unfortunately, have been eroded and severely deteriorated. According to Khorasani, such maces were realised with the lost-wax process.

A mixed group of lead musket and pistol ball. 2.31 kg total, 9-20 mm



Found Suffolk, UK. Property of a Suffolk, UK, gentleman.

Ovoid in profile with a rounded base, two incised circumferential bands above the shoulder; intended to be filled with explosive liquid and a wick, and used as a hand grenade. 666 grams, 10 cm



From a specialist collection, London, UK, 1990-2000s. Accompanied by an academic paper by military specialist Dr Raffaele D'Amato, dated 15 July 2019 and titled 'Eastern Roman Empire - Greek Fire Bomb or Hand Grenade (μεσαίον kακάβιον) 9th-11th century AD'.

Apart from the use of siphons or manual flame-throwers called cheirosiphona, special corps of Roman soldiers employed terracotta grenades, in the form of small jars, abundantly evidenced in archaeological excavations. They were called μεσαία kακαβιά or κυτροκακάβια, where the former had a bulbous shape and the latter a more cylindrical form.